Do I need a doctor's note to get the shingles vaccine in BC? How much does the vaccine cost? Why aren't shingles vaccines free?

• Shingrix® is a series of two doses and costs about $150/dose.
• Zostavax® II is given as one dose and costs about $200.
• Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of the vaccine; check with your provider.

If you buy the vaccine at a travel clinic, a doctor or nurse on-site will be able to vaccinate you. Most pharmacists in B.C. give vaccines. If you want your doctor to vaccinate you, find out if they have a supply of the shingles vaccine. Search for clinics offering shingles vaccination on the Vaccines411 website. Click here to read about why all vaccines in B.C. are not free.