SINGAPORE – The Controversial Decision on Shingles Vaccine Subsidy

In a surprising announcement, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has decided against subsidizing the high-cost shingles vaccine, leaving many concerned about access to this important health protection.

Understanding the Cost of the Shingrix Vaccine

A recent investigation by The Straits Times revealed that the total price for the Shingrix vaccine, which requires two doses administered two to six months apart, can range anywhere from $720 to $950, a figure that includes taxes and consultation fees. This hefty cost has raised alarms, especially among vulnerable populations like seniors who are at heightened risk.

MOH's Perspective on Cost-Effectiveness

Responding to a parliamentary inquiry from Mr. Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC), the MOH stated on November 12 that at the manufacturer’s proposed price, the vaccine is viewed as 'not cost-effective' for population-level shingles prevention.

About the Shingrix Vaccine

Manufactured by the British pharmaceutical giant GSK, Shingrix was given the green light for use in Singapore in 2021. It boasts over 90% effectiveness against shingles, although this may diminish for the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Notably, the protection from the vaccine is expected to last at least seven years, which is promising but still leaves uncertainty, given the vaccine’s relatively recent introduction; it was first approved for use in the US in October 2017.

The Cause and Impact of Shingles

For those wondering about the cause of shingles, it stems from the same varicella-zoster virus responsible for chickenpox, which remains dormant and can reactivate later in life, causing painful rashes. Each year, around 30,000 individuals in Singapore suffer from shingles, and research indicates that one in three adults will experience it in their lifetime.

Complications Associated with Shingles

Complications from shingles can be severe, especially among older adults. Up to 20% of those afflicted may experience long-term nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia. Other potential complications may include pneumonia, encephalitis, or even hearing loss.

Treatment and Prevention Strategies

While effective antiviral treatments exist and are most beneficial when administered within the first 72 hours of onset, they do not eliminate the risk of developing nerve pain. Thus, the best strategy to fend off shingles is through vaccination.

Conclusion: A Call for Policy Reevaluation

Even though the MOH has decided not to subsidize the shingles vaccine, it's worth noting that they do provide subsidies for other essential vaccines for seniors, such as the annual flu vaccine and two doses of the pneumococcal vaccine, which guard against serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis.

With the increased awareness of shingles and its potential complications, this lack of subsidy might leave many wondering: Is it time for the government to reconsider and prioritize accessibility to health care for its aging population? The debate continues!