Influenza Vaccination to Reduce Risk of Infection and Disease-related Complications

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.

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.