those age 50 and older make up more than two-thirds of all cases, according to
health canada. your immune system weakens with age, making you more susceptible to the infection, and other health conditions also impact immunity.
anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for shingles
in fact, anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk, and adults of any age with a chronic health condition like diabetes, asthma, cancer or heart disease are at increased risk of the virus.
the national survey, commissioned by gsk canada, was conducted from december 17, 2024 to january 19, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 2,109 canadians aged 18 and older, revealed the following:
- only one-third of respondents know that a chronic health condition can increase your risk of getting shingles
- among those with a chronic condition, concern of getting shingles is low with only 12 per cent highly concerned and 37 per cent somewhat concerned
- over 80 per cent of those with a chronic condition have not been informed by a healthcare professional about an increased risk for shingles.
talk to a primary care provider about your risk for shingles
“shingles is more than just a rash and its impact can be particularly devastating and prolonged for those who are older or who are living with underlying health conditions,” dr. michelle horn, country medical director at gsk canada, said in the news release.
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