Learn about herpes zoster (shingles), its symptoms, risk factors and why the Shingrix vaccine is recommended for eligible adults in Singapore. Available at Anteh Dispensary and Little Cross Family Clinic.
Herpes Zoster (Shingles) in Singapore: What You Need to Know About Prevention
Most people think chickenpox is a childhood illness that disappears after recovery. However, the virus that causes chickenpox can remain inactive in your body for decades and reactivate later in life as herpes zoster, more commonly known as shingles.
Shingles can be painful and may lead to long-lasting nerve pain, particularly in older adults. Fortunately, vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of developing shingles and its complications.
At Anteh Dispensary and Little Cross Family Clinic, we provide the Shingrix® shingles vaccine to help eligible adults protect themselves against herpes zoster.
What Is Herpes Zoster (Shingles)?
Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for chickenpox.
After you recover from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in your nerve cells. As you get older or if your immune system becomes weaker, the virus can reactivate and cause shingles.
Although shingles itself is not spread from person to person, the varicella-zoster virus can be transmitted from someone with active shingles to individuals who have never had chickenpox or have not been vaccinated against it, potentially causing chickenpox in those individuals.
Common Shingles Symptoms
Recognising shingles early is important.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain, burning or tingling on one side of the body
- A red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
- Itching or sensitivity to touch
- Fever
- Headache
- Chills
- General feeling of being unwell
The rash usually appears on one side of the body or face and can be very painful.
Who Is More Likely to Get Shingles?
While anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, the risk increases with age because immunity naturally declines over time.
People at higher risk include:
- Adults aged 60 years and above
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- People receiving treatments that suppress the immune system
- Individuals with certain medical conditions affecting immunity
If you’re caring for ageing parents or loved ones, encouraging them to discuss shingles vaccination with their doctor can be an important step in protecting their health.
Why Is Shingles Prevention Important?
Besides causing an uncomfortable rash, shingles may lead to complications.
One of the most common complications is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), persistent nerve pain that can continue even after the rash has healed. Older adults are more likely to experience this complication. Other less common but serious complications may affect the eyes, ears, lungs or brain.
Because of these potential complications, prevention is often the best approach.
Shingles Vaccine in Singapore
The recombinant herpes zoster vaccine (Shingrix®) is currently the shingles vaccine recommended under Singapore’s National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for eligible groups. It does not contain the live virus.
Who Should Consider the Shingles Vaccine?
According to Singapore’s recommendations, shingles vaccination is recommended for:
- All adults aged 60 years and above
- Adults aged 18 years and above with certain immunocompromising conditions, after assessment by a doctor
If you’re unsure whether you’re suitable for vaccination, speak to your GP for personalised advice.
How Many Doses Are Needed?
The Shingrix vaccine is given as two doses.
For most adults aged 60 years and above, the second dose is administered 2 to 6 months after the first dose. Certain individuals with weakened immune systems may have a different recommended schedule based on their doctor’s assessment.
Completing the full course is important for optimal protection.
Government Subsidies for Shingles Vaccination
Shingrix has been included in Singapore’s National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS).
Eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents may receive subsidies at participating CHAS GP clinics, polyclinics and public healthcare institutions. MediSave can also be used according to current MOH policies for eligible individuals.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, our clinic team will be happy to advise you.
Why Choose Anteh Dispensary or Little Cross Family Clinic?
If you’re looking for a Shingles GP in Singapore, both Anteh Dispensary and Little Cross Family Clinic provide professional vaccination services in a comfortable and supportive environment.
When you visit us, you can expect:
- ✅ Shingrix® two-dose course available
- ✅ Private consultations
- ✅ Walk-ins welcome
- ✅ Friendly GP assessment before vaccination
- ✅ Convenient locations in Geylang and Tampines
Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or helping an elderly family member stay protected, we’re here to help.
Book Your Shingles Vaccination Today
If you’re aged 60 years and above, or have a medical condition that may increase your risk of shingles, consider speaking to a doctor about whether the Shingrix vaccine is suitable for you.
Visit Anteh Dispensary in Geylang or Little Cross Family Clinic in Tampines for a private consultation.
Visit our sister clinic, Little Cross Family Clinic, for these services.
Little Cross Family Clinic
📍 Location: Conveniently located near Tampines West MRT
📞 Call us: 6544 0040
📱 WhatsApp us: 9711 3550 to enquire about our shingles vaccine.
Anteh Dispensary
📞 Call us: 6744 1809
📱 WhatsApp us: 8764 7488
Walk-ins are welcome.