Influenza Vaccination to Reduce Risks of Infection and Disease-Related Complications

NOTICE PAPER NO. 1368

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 3 OCTOBER 2022

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Sitoh Yih Pin

MP for Potong Pasir

Question No. 2135

To ask 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 risks of infection and disease-related complications.

Answer

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 years and above, young children between six months to 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. MOH and the Health Promotion Board will continue to work with our primary care partners and other stakeholders to promote influenza vaccination.