Vitality’s 1000 Points for a Shingles Vaccine: A Flawed Incentive

Vitality offers 1000 points for receiving a shingles vaccine. However, this incentive is misleading and impractical because no SAHPRA-approved shingles vaccine is currently available in South Africa. The previous Zostavax vaccine was discontinued by its manufacturers and removed from the market in South Africa, leaving Shingrix as the sole option globally for shingles vaccination. Yet, Shingrix has not been approved by SAHPRA and is therefore not stocked in local pharmacies. It is only accessible through specific providers, such as Travel Doctor. On 18 October 2024, I wrote to Discovery Health regarding this issue and am still awaiting their response. My concerns are as follows: 1. Coverage for Shingrix: Will Discovery cover the cost of a Shingrix vaccine, even though it is not SAHPRA-approved? 2. Vitality Program: Given the absence of a SAHPRA-approved shingles vaccine, should Vitality remove this incentive until such a vaccine is available? 3. Guidance for Members: Where does Discovery suggest clients obtain a shingles vaccine in the current context? 4. SAHPRA Approval: Has Discovery Health taken any steps to facilitate SAHPRA approval of the Shingrix vaccine? My personal experience underscores the urgency of these questions. I had shingles in 2019 and received the Zostavax vaccine in 2020. Unfortunately, I contracted shingles again in 2021, consistent with findings from Kaiser Permanente's Vaccine Study (published in the British Medical Journal), which reported Zostavax’s efficacy declines significantly after the first year. On 8 December 2024, I was diagnosed with shingles for the third time. Had Discovery Health responded to my letter and facilitated access to the Shingrix vaccine, I might have avoided this painful recurrence. I urge Discovery Health to address these concerns promptly for the benefit of all members who rely on accurate, actionable health guidance.