Shingles vaccine Singapore

Get Ready to Go Anti-Shingles – The Vaccine Just Got Cheaper!

Singaporeans rejoice! Shingles vaccine Shingrix is getting subsidized! Find out how it affects you in September!

SINGAPORE – Good news, folks! If you’ve been putting off getting vaccinated against shingles, the wait is almost over. Starting this September, eligible Singaporeans and permanent residents (PRs) will enjoy subsidies on the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, making it much easier on your wallet. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced that they will extend their existing MediSave coverage, significantly reducing the out-of-pocket cost for individuals.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung has stated that with these subsidies and the allowance to use MediSave funds, the financial burden for getting vaccinated could potentially drop to zero for eligible individuals. This means you can protect yourself against shingles—which can be quite debilitating—without having to worry about your bank account taking a hit. Talk about a win-win!

But what exactly is shingles, and why should you care? Shingles, or herpes zoster, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same villain that causes chickenpox). After you recover from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in your body and can re-emerge later in life as shingles. Symptoms can include painful rashes, fatigue, and even complications like postherpetic neuralgia, an intense nerve pain that can last for years. Therefore, safeguarding your health with the vaccine is crucial, especially as you age.

And here’s a fun fact: shingles can affect anyone who has had chickenpox, but it’s more common in those over the age of 50. The chance of developing shingles rises with age, and while the vaccine is recommended for older adults, younger individuals may also benefit from getting vaccinated. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting informed and, when September rolls around, consider rolling up that sleeve! Remember, laughter is the best medicine, but a shingles vaccine comes pretty close!