Shingles Vaccine Cost And Cost Of Treatment In Singapore

Shingles is a painful viral infection that can cause long-lasting complications. This will be especially so in older adults due to lowered immunity systems. Fortunately, it can be prevented via vaccination. What is the shingles vaccine cost, and how much does treatment cost if you do get shingles? In this article, we explore the current shingles vaccine cost in Singapore and the potential medical expenses for shingles treatment.

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What Is Shingles Vaccine Cost In Singapore

There are currently (Jul 2025) one approved shingles vaccine available in Singapore: Shingrix (a non-live recombinant vaccine). Shingrix is has high efficacy and is suitable for older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Zostavax (a live attenuated vaccine) was another shingles vaccine but is no longer available in Singapore. It is less effective compared to Shingrix and may not be suitable for older or immune-compromised people.

• Shingrix Vaccine Cost: The vaccine is administered in two doses, spaced 2–6 months apart. Depending on the clinic or healthcare provider, the total cost for both doses is approximately S$720 to S$800.

While these vaccines are not subsidised (as of Jul 2025) under Singapore’s standard government health schemes like CHAS or Medisave for the general population, some corporate insurance plans and private health packages may offer partial reimbursement. Always check with your healthcare provider or insurer for the latest coverage options.

Government Subsidies For Shingles Vaccination From Sep 2025

MOH had announced will extend the subsidies and MediSave usage for shingles vaccine for eligible people at public healthcare institutions and general practitioner (GP) clinics under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS). From September 2025, eligible Singaporeans and permanent residents can receive means-tested subsidies of up to 75% at CHAS GP clinics, polyclinics and MOH-funded long-term care institutions. Seniors from the Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation are also eligible for additional subsidies in the outpatient setting.

After subsidies, the cost of shingles vaccination for eligible Singaporeans will be around S$75 to S$300 for 2 doses of Shingrix. Permanent Residents can expect to pay around S$450.

In addition, from 2026, MediSave can be used to pay for the post-subsidy cost of Shingrix.

Cost Of Treating Shingles In Singapore

If you contract shingles, early medical treatment is essential to minimise pain and reduce the risk of complications like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Here’s a breakdown of typical treatment costs:

• GP Consultation Fees: A standard visit may range from S$30–S$60.
• Antiviral Medication: Common drugs like acyclovir or valacyclovir may be prescribed to shorten the duration of shingles. The course may cost S$60–S$150 depending on dosage and duration.
• Pain Management: Additional prescriptions, such as nerve pain medication or topical creams, can add another S$30–S$100.
• Specialist Visits: If complications arise, you may be referred to a dermatologist or neurologist, costing S$120–S$200 per consultation.

In severe cases that requires hospitalisation or long-term PHN management, expenses can potentially escalate into the thousands of dollars, especially if physiotherapy or chronic pain treatment is required.

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For adults over 50, especially those with pre-existing conditions, getting vaccinated is a proactive investment in long-term wellbeing.

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