Ask The Expert: We've Just Arrived In Singapore. What Vaccinations Are Recommended?

In Singapore, there are two vaccines that are mandatory by law: diphtheria and measles.

In addition to these compulsory vaccines, there are other vaccinations a child must have to register in primary school in Singapore. These vaccines include: BCG, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, mumps, rubella and hepatitis B. At International Medical Clinic (IMC), we follow the Singaporean vaccination schedule as well as the parents’ preferred country’s schedule.

Moved here with an infant? Besides the mandatory vaccinations noted, consider giving your infant the pneumococcal vaccine, too. This vaccine can prevent infections from the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, which may lead to severe infections such as pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.

If you’re looking to travel within Asia, it might be worth receiving the hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines.

Likewise, the rotavirus vaccine, which immunises against gastroenteritis (vomitting and diarrhoea), is recommended for infants, who are more prone to develop dehydration from gastroenteritis than adults.

As for older children and adults, consider vaccinating against the common flu. As a global hub for travel, locals and expats living in Singapore are exposed to both the Southern and Northern Hemisphere flu season. Lower your chances of contracting the flu by receiving the influenza vaccine yearly.

Travelling within Asia? It might be worth receiving the hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines. These will help to immunise you from diseases contracted by eating contaminated food or drinking water.

International travellers who are likely to come in contact with animals in parts of the world where rabies is common (Cambodia, Vietnam and India) should consider receiving a rabies vaccination, too.

Dr. Bernadeta Wibisono is a paediatric doctor from the International Medical Clinic (IMC). IMC specialises in family, paediatric and travel medicine. With three General Practice clinics and a specialist Paediatric department, IMC provides a high standard of healthcare.

International Medical Clinic (IMC)
1 Orchard Blvd., Camden Medical Centre, #14-06248649
Other IMC locations include Jelita Shopping Centre and Katong Square.
Tel: 6733 4440
Web: www.imc-healthcare.com

From The Finder (Issue 300), September 2019

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