At Centrum Pharmacy, our focus is always on Complete, Comprehensive, Caring, and Connected Care—the 4 C’s that define how we keep our community healthy. One of the most overlooked threats to adults, especially those with chronic conditions, is Herpes Zoster (HZ)—commonly known as shingles.
What many people don’t realize is that shingles is not just a painful rash. Research now shows a strong link between HZ and major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.
Today, we’re breaking down why Shingrix, the leading HZ vaccine, is a vital part of protecting your long-term heart and brain health.
Key Findings: Shingles Increases Cardiovascular Risk
1. Higher Shingles Risk in Patients With Heart Conditions
Patients living with cardiovascular disease have a 34% increased risk of developing shingles.
2. Heart Attack & Stroke Risk Spike After a Shingles Episode
In the first 3 months after shingles, the risk of:
- Heart attack increases by 31%, and
- Stroke increases by 34%,
affecting people both with and without underlying conditions.
3. Risk Remains High for Over a Year
The chance of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications is highest in the first weeks, but persistently elevated for more than a year.
4. Patients With Chronic Conditions Are Especially Vulnerable
Chronic diseases weaken overall resilience. These patients are:
- More likely to develop shingles
- More likely to develop complications when they do
5. Patients With Prior Heart Attack or Stroke Are at Extreme Risk
- Those with a history of MI have a 121-fold increased odds of heart attack following shingles.
- Those with a history of stroke have a 35-fold increased odds of having another stroke.
These numbers make shingles prevention more than routine care—it’s risk reduction and life protection.
Why Shingrix?
Shingrix is the trade name for the recombinant zoster vaccine proven to dramatically reduce the risk of shingles and its complications. It is the gold standard for HZ prevention in Canada, especially for anyone:
- 50 years or older
- Living with cardiovascular disease
- With diabetes, COPD, asthma, or autoimmune conditions
- With a prior stroke or heart attack
- With weakened immune systems
How Centrum Pharmacy Helps
At Centrum Pharmacy, we don’t just vaccinate—we practice Connected Care. Our team works closely with Orleans Family Health Clinic physicians, ensuring coordinated decisions, proper follow-up, and monitoring of people at higher cardiovascular risk.
We offer:
- Shingrix vaccination with pharmacist assessment
- Minor ailment consultations
- Chronic disease medication reviews
- Coordination with your family physician or our recruited OFHC physicians
- Reminder systems for your second Shingrix dose
You’re not getting “just a vaccine”—you’re getting the Centrum Pharmacy 4 C’s experience.
Protect your heart, your brain, and your future.
Book your Shingrix vaccination at Centrum Pharmacy today.
Contact us or visit our website to book now.
Looking for a Family Doctor?
Check our get a doctor page to see if our waitlists are open and consider transferring your prescriptions to Centrum Pharmacy!
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Caring for Your Family Since 1999
Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
