Protecting Yourself Against Shingles

As we age, one health risk that often goes under the radar is shingles — a reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox. It can lead to painful and sometimes long-lasting complications.

To address this, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has included the shingles vaccine under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), making it easier and more affordable for eligible adults in Singapore to get protected.

Here’s what you need to know about the vaccine, subsidies, and how you can use Medisave to cover part of the cost.

1. Understanding Shingles

What is shingles?

Shingles (Herpes Zoster) is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. After recovery from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later.

Why is prevention important?

• The risk increases sharply with age, especially from 50 years old onwards.

• Complications can include post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a severe, long-lasting nerve pain.

• Other possible complications include eye and neurological conditions.

2. Vaccine Type & Schedule

The approved vaccine used in Singapore is the Recombinant Zoster Vaccine (RZV), commonly known as Shingrix.

• Dosage: Two doses, taken 2 to 6 months apart

• Vaccine type: Non-live recombinant vaccine

• Effectiveness: More than 90% protection in adults aged 50 and above

• Common side effects: Mild redness, swelling, or fatigue lasting 1–3 days

3. Who Should Get Vaccinated

According to MOH guidelines (Circular No. 03/2025), the shingles vaccine is recommended for:

• All adults aged 60 years and older

• Adults aged 18 years and above with immunocompromising conditions (e.g., cancer therapy, chronic diseases, immune suppression)

Even if you’ve had shingles before or received the older vaccine (Zostavax), you may still benefit from Shingrix.

4. Subsidies and Medisave Usage

Subsidies (from 1 September 2025)

Eligible adults can enjoy means-tested subsidies under NAIS when they receive their vaccine at participating CHAS GP clinics or polyclinics.

Indicative costs after subsidy (for each dose):

• Pioneer Generation: ~$38

• Merdeka Generation / CHAS Blue / Orange: ~$75

• CHAS Green / Non-CHAS: ~$150

Permanent Residents (PRs) may pay around $450 for both doses.

Medisave (from mid-2026)

From mid-2026, individuals will be able to use Medisave to cover the remaining cost of the shingles vaccine after subsidy.

• Flexi-Medisave may also be used by seniors aged 60 and above.

5. Why It Matters

Vaccination not only protects individuals but also reduces the broader healthcare burden associated with complications like nerve pain and hospitalisation.For businesses and community health programmes, shingles vaccination is a vital component of preventive care — safeguarding productivity and improving quality of life for older employees and patients.

6. Take Action – Protect Yourself Today

If you are aged 60 and above, or have a weakened immune system, it’s time to safeguard your health.

💉 Get vaccinated against shingles today.

Visit Ultimed Healthcare to learn more about your eligibility, subsidy options, and Medisave coverage.

📅 Book your appointment now with our healthcare team and take the first step towards lifelong protection.

👉 Call or visit Ultimed Healthcare to schedule your shingles vaccination today!