No shingles vaccine details weeks before announced rollout

Four weeks ago the P.E.I. government announced it would start delivering free shingles vaccines to Island seniors in January, but no details have yet been released.

Russ Noiles, president of the P.E.I. Senior Citizens Federation, said his members are keen to hear how the Shingrix program will work.

"People are anxious," said Noiles.

"They're expecting it in the first part of January, and I would not like to see them disappointed."

Shingles is a viral infection that can trigger a painful rash.

The vaccine has been a regular topic of conversation at seniors' clubs over the last five years, said Noiles.

A Shingrix vaccine dose costs about $180and two shots are required. That cost is out of reach for many seniors, he said.

'Nobody seems to know'

Liberal health critic Robert Henderson has been making inquiries about the plan for the vaccine, but has not had any success.

"Here we are two weeks before the rollout and nobody seems to know any information," said Henderson.

"Government promised this. It was an election promise and it was supposed to be rolled out long before this."

In a written release Wednesday evening, the Department of Health and Wellness said administering COVID-19 booster shots is its top priority.

"Delays in booking appointment for other vaccine services may be possible," the release reads.

"This delay is necessary to prioritize the administration of the COVID-19 boosters to ensure Islanders are well protected against COVID-19 during this next wave of the pandemic.

"The public will be advised when resources are available to allow booking their appointments for the Shingrix vaccine."