Further Subsidising Shingrix Vaccine for Vulnerable Younger Seniors with Chronic Conditions

Mr Alex Yeo asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health in view of the debilitating nature of shingles particularly for vulnerable seniors with other chronic medical conditions, whether the Ministry will consider further subsidising the estimated co-payment cost of $300 for the Shingrix vaccine over two doses, for younger seniors who are not of the Pioneer or Merdeka Generation.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The cost of the Shingrix vaccine is highly subsidised – up to 75% for non-Pioneer or Merdeka Generation individuals, based on means-testing. In addition, eligible individuals, including all aged 60 and above, can use MediSave to pay for the remaining cost after subsidies – up to $500 or $700 under MediSave500/700, and for those aged 60 years or older, an additional $400 under Flexi-MediSave. After subsidies and MediSave, they may have zero out-of-pocket costs for the vaccination.

The Ministry of Health will continue to ensure that recommended vaccinations remain affordable to patients through relevant subsidies and MediSave use.