One of the learning points for many of us after COVID-19, is appreciating the importance of vaccination.
Just as COVID-19 vaccination has prevented the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation and death from COVID-19, Pneumonia vaccination will prevent many seniors from bacterial pneumonia the same.
Here's what you should know if you are more than 65 years old, or you know someone who is (probably our parents).
1. Pneumonia is one of the main reasons for death and hospitalisation in Singapore
Even before the existence of COVID-19, Pneumonia has always been an issue for elderly, especially in the hospitals.
Pneumonia is the 3rd leading cause of death in Singapore, claiming the lives of over 4,000 people a year.
Adults 65 and above are at higher risk of serious illness and death from pneumococcal infections.
Taking the vaccines is the best way to prevent serious fatal infections from pneumococcal bacteria.
Pneumoccocal vaccines help prevent serious infection caused by the bacteria Streptococcus Pneumoniae.
The pneumococcal vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against pneumococcal diseases, which include infection of the lungs (pneumonia), ear (otitis media), brain lining (meningitis), blood (septicemia), and other serious infections.
2. Who is eligible for the Pneumococcal vaccine?
Adults who are 65 years old and above are eligible to take the vaccines. There are two doses, which MOH recommends be taken 1 year apart.
The staff at the clinic may also check your vaccination history, to make sure you are medically fit to take the pneumococcal vaccines, and haven’t already taken them.
3. How much does the vaccine cost?
If you are a Singapore citizen, it's possible not to pay any out of pocket cash because of Medisave and government subsides.
MOH provides CHAS subsidies for Pioneer and Merdeka seniors, with the remaining cost being the following:
$16 for Pioneer Generation seniors*
$31 for Merdeka Generation seniors*
You can use Medisave to pay for your vaccination.
Merdeka: Born between 1952 and 1959* Pioneer: Born in 1951 or earlier*
Make a booking at Kovan Clinic or Potong Pasir Clinic for an appointment, or walk in to enquire!
Source: https://book.health.gov.sg/