MOH introduces new list of recommended vaccine jabs for adults

SINGAPORE — In a bid to boost awareness of the importance of vaccinations among adults, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has for the first time drawn up a list of recommended immunisation jabs for those aged 18 and above.

From November 1, Singaporeans can use up to S$400 in their Medisave account annually, under the Medisave400 scheme, to pay for seven types of vaccines covered under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), the ministry said in a media release on Saturday (Oct 21).

Those who are eligible can be vaccinated at Medisave-accredited healthcare institutions, like hospitals, polyclinics, and CHAS GP clinics. The seven types of vaccines protect against influenza, pneumococcal, human papillomavirus (HPV), tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, measles, mumps and rubella, hepatitis B, as well as varicella.

(Click to enlarge) Summary of National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for persons aged 18 years and older Table: MOH

Vaccination coverage is low among Singaporean adults, said an MOH spokesperson, citing the National Health Surveillance Survey in 2013. The 2013 survey found, for instance, that only 14 to 20 per cent of Singaporeans above the age of 50 have had an influenza vaccination.

Singaporean children up to 11 years old are covered by the existing National Childhood Immunisation Programme (NCIP).

But there has been a lack of awareness among older Singaporeans of the benefits of adult vaccination, Senior Minister of State for Health Dr Lam Pin Min said in a speech announcing the new immunisation schedule for adults.

He added: "While the coverage for vaccinations under the NCIP has been high for most of the vaccines, there is low awareness of the benefits of adult vaccination for personal protection and protection of at-risk family members.

"With the introduction of NAIS, we hope to encourage Singaporeans to take up the recommendations, and to protect themselves and their loved ones against the relevant infectious diseases."

MOH advised Singaporean adults to discuss their vaccination needs with their doctor, who will take into consideration factors like age, occupation, pre-existing medical conditions, vaccination history, as well as the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the vaccines.

A summary of the recommendations under NAIS suggests, for instance, that those aged 65 and above should get an influenza jab annually.

The NAIS also recommends the HPV jab, which helps to reduce the risk of cervical cancer, for all women aged between 18 and 26, with three doses to be taken across six months.

(Click to enlarge) National Adult Immunisation Schedule – recommended groups and vaccination schedule (For persons aged 18 years and older) Table: MOH