Influenza Vaccination to Reduce Risk of Infection and Disease-related Complications
Ministry of HealthSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the projected increase in influenza cases following the easing of mask-wearing rules and the promotion of vaccinations for vulnerable populations. Mr Sitoh Yih Pin inquired if infection numbers would rise significantly and what measures are planned to encourage vaccination, particularly for those aged 65 and above. Minister Ong Ye Kung stated that cases are expected to revert to pre-pandemic levels and urged the public to maintain isolation and masking practices when unwell. He highlighted that national immunisation schedules recommend vaccinations for high-risk groups—including persons aged 65 and above, young children, and the medically vulnerable—and noted that these remain highly subsidised. Minister Ong Ye Kung added that the Ministry of Health and Health Promotion Board will continue promoting vaccinations alongside primary care partners.
Transcript
35 Mr Sitoh Yih Pin asked the Minister for Health in view of the easing of mask-wearing rules (a) whether the Ministry expects the number of influenza cases to increase significantly; and (b) whether the Ministry has plans to encourage more Singaporeans, especially persons aged 65 and above, to get the influenza vaccination to reduce the risk of infection and disease-related complications.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Influenza cases are expected to increase and revert to levels similar to pre-COVID-19 levels. However, we hope that individuals will keep the good practices of isolating themselves if they feel unwell and wearing a mask if they have to go out. That will moderate the infection rate of diseases like Influenza.
The National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) and National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) recommends that individuals at a higher risk of developing severe influenza infection and adverse outcomes should receive influenza vaccination. These include all persons aged 65 and above, young children between six months and below five years, and vulnerable persons between five and 64 years of age with certain medical conditions predisposing them to severe influenza. The public is encouraged to consult their family doctors for more information about the vaccinations.
The influenza vaccinations are highly subsidised for at-risk groups to keep them affordable and accessible to the public. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Promotion Board will continue to work with our primary care partners and other stakeholders to promote influenza vaccination.