CSA'S News You Can Use: Have You Gotten Your Shingles Shot?

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)DC area union members and their older dependents can save themselves from what most sufferers call "excruciating" pain and possible vision damage by getting vaccinated against shingles.  Many union health plans cover the cost of the shot and CVS and Safeway Pharmacies can give the shot without a prescription from a doctor, if the eligible adult has proof of age. National Writers Union member Carolyn Jacobson, who focuses on health issues at the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW), recommends that union members and retirees over 60 check with their health plans to see if the vaccine, called Zostavax, is covered under adult vaccinations. In many states, pharmacists can give the shot without a doctor's prescription, if you have proof of age. We know that's the case in MD and that many CVS, Safeway and RiteAid Pharmacies in MD are giving the shot, if they have it.  It's best, however, to call in advance.
- Kathleen McKirchy, Community Service Agency