Health News: Why the Influenza Vaccine Matters – Especially for Seniors

As Singapore continues to promote healthier lifestyles and preventive care under the Healthier SG movement, one simple yet powerful step in protecting your health — especially for seniors and those with chronic conditions — is getting the annual influenza (flu) vaccination. 

What is Influenza? 

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by flu viruses. Unlike the common cold, influenza can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or worsening of existing medical conditions — especially in the elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease. 

Flu season can occur year-round in tropical climates like Singapore, and outbreaks can happen in close-contact environments such as homes, offices, and nursing facilities. 

The Importance of the Influenza Vaccine 

The influenza vaccine helps your immune system build protection against the most common strains of the virus circulating each year. While not 100% foolproof, it reduces the risk of severe flu, hospitalisation, and flu-related complications, particularly for high-risk groups. 

According to health experts, annual vaccination is necessary because: 

• The flu virus mutates regularly 

• Immunity from the vaccine wanes after 6–12 months 

• Each year’s vaccine is updated to match current circulating strains 

Who Should Get the Flu Shot? 

According to the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) and National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) The flu jab or flu shot is recommended for everyone and especially in people who are at high risk of developing influenza complications such as: 

MOH and Health Promotion Board recommend annual influenza vaccination for: 

• Elderly aged 65 and above 

• Patients with chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, COPD) 

• Pregnant women in any trimester 

• Persons with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or heart, lung, liver and kidney disease 

• Persons with lower body resistance to infections due to : 

• Conditions such as leukaemia, HIV, spleen removal, or organ transplant 

• Using medications or receiving treatment such as taking long-term steroids, certain cancer drugs or radiation therapy 

• Persons aged 18 years or younger and receiving long-term aspirin therapy 

• Children aged 6 months old to 59 months 

• Healthcare workers and caregivers 

• Individuals living with vulnerable persons 

How Is the Influenza Vaccination Given?  

The flu vaccine or flu shot is either given by injection into a muscle or just underneath the skin. 

One dose is recommended per year as flu viruses are constantly changing, and your body’s immunity to influenza viruses may decrease over time. 

Cost & Subsidies in Singapore 

Eligible Singaporeans can receive the flu vaccine under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) with subsidies of up to 100% at CHAS GP clinics like Ultimed Clinic, depending on your CHAS, Merdeka, or Pioneer Generation status. 

MediSave can also be used to cover vaccination costs for those aged 18 and above. 

Get Vaccinated at Ultimed Clinic 

At Ultimed Clinic, our team of friendly doctors and nurses makes getting vaccinated easy, safe, and efficient. Walk-ins and appointments are welcome. 

📅 Don’t wait for flu season to hit. Protect yourself and your loved ones — book your flu vaccination with us today. 

For more info: https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/medications/influenza-vaccine (To open in another page on another brower)