Shingles Vaccination
Shingles (medical name: herpes zoster) is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Here’s what happens:
- After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus doesn’t fully go away. It stays dormant (inactive) in nerve cells.
- Years or decades later, the virus can reactivate, causing shingles.
Key features:
- Rash and blisters: Usually appears on one side of the body or face, in a stripe or band pattern.
- Pain and burning: Pain, tingling, or itching often starts before the rash appears, and can be severe.
- Other symptoms: Fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to touch.
- Complications: The most common is postherpetic neuralgia, where nerve pain lasts for months or years after the rash clears. Eye involvement can also be serious if the rash affects the face.
Who’s at risk?
- Older adults (most common after age 50)
- People with weakened immune systems (due to illness, stress, or medication)
Prevention & treatment:
- A shingles vaccine can reduce the risk and severity.
- Antiviral medications can shorten the illness if started early.
- Pain management may be needed with medications or nerve treatments.
Subsidies & MediSave Support (Singapore-specific)
- Previous pricing of the Shingrix vaccination was not considered cost effective for prevention of shingles at the population level.
- Starting September 2025, eligible individuals (aged 60 years and above, or immunocompromised adults from 18 to 59 years old) can receive up to 75% subsidies at CHAS GP clinics, polyclinics, and MOH-funded long-term care institutions.
- After applying the subsidies, Singaporeans can expect to pay an estimated SGD 75 to SGD 300 per course of Shingrix (which consists of 2 doses) at CHAS GP clinics. Copayment amount depends on whether one has Pioneer Generation (PG), Merdeka Generation (MG) or CHAS Blue, Orange or Green cards.
- From mid-2026, the remaining cost after subsidy can be paid using MediSave, potentially reducing out-of-pocket expense to zero.
The Shingrix vaccine is available at our clinic. Please call our clinic at 62808080 to enquire more or book your appointment today!
