Protect Yourself with the COVID-19 Vaccine in Singapore

COVID-19 Prevention

COVID-19 remains a concern, particularly for older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Vaccination continues to be a vital tool in preventing severe illness and reducing transmission. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health (MOH) offers free COVID-19 vaccinations under the National Vaccination Programme for eligible individuals.

This page provides essential information to help you understand the vaccine, determine if it's right for you, and guide you through the vaccination process.

What Is the COVID-19 Vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine is designed to protect against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. Approved vaccines in Singapore include:

  • Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty
  • Moderna/Spikevax
  • Novavax/Nuvaxovid

These vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to recognise and combat the virus. The updated JN.1 versions of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty and Moderna/Spikevax, rolled out from 28 October 2024, offer enhanced protection against emerging variants. And an additional dose can further boost protection against serious conditions in vaccinated individuals.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, primarily affects the respiratory system. It can present with a wide range of symptoms, from mild issues like fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue to more serious complications such as breathing difficulties, pneumonia, or in severe cases, death. The virus spreads through droplets released when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Some may also experience a loss of smell or taste, and symptoms can vary depending on age, health status, and vaccination history.

Who Should Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Expert Committee on COVID-19 Vaccination (EC19V), the COVID-19 vaccine in Singapore is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and above, especially for those at higher risk of severe disease. This includes:

  • Individuals aged 60 years and above
  • Medically vulnerable individuals aged 6 months and above: This includes those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems.
  • Residents of aged care facilities
  • Healthcare workers: Due to increased exposure, including those in close contact with patients
  • Close contacts of high-risk individuals: People living with or caring for individuals at higher risk of severe disease

If you’re planning to travel, make sure you’re vaccinated before visiting high-risk regions.

When and How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?

Individuals aged 6 months and above are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination in Singapore. The vaccination schedule consists of the following:

For Unvaccinated Persons:

  • Ages 6 months to 4 years: Two doses, eight weeks apart.
  • Ages 5 years and older: One dose.

Booster Doses:

A booster dose is recommended approximately 12 months (and at least five months) after the last dose for enhanced protection, especially for seniors and medically vulnerable individuals.

For individuals who have missed their vaccination schedule or are planning to travel soon, it is advisable to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment in advance to ensure full protection before travel.

What to Expect During and After the Vaccination

The vaccination process is simple and quick:

  • Pre-vaccination screening: Complete an online screening form to ensure you're eligible for the vaccine.
  • Injection: The vaccine is administered via an injection in your upper arm.
  • Post-vaccination monitoring: Stay at the vaccination site for about 15-30 minutes to monitor for any immediate reactions

Common side effects include:

  • Pain at the injection site
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Fever

These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days.

How to Register for COVID-19 Vaccine

Book Your COVID-19 Vaccine in Singapore

COVID-19 vaccinations remain free for all eligible individuals under Singapore’s National Vaccination Programme (NVP). This includes Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, Long-Term Pass holders, and certain Short-Term Pass holders. Vaccination is offered at no cost at participating public healthcare institutions and clinics.

Healthway Medical Singapore is a participating provider under the NVP, offering accessible vaccination services at various clinics and vaccination centres. If you're looking to book an appointment for the COVID vaccine in Singapore, our clinics provide easy appointment scheduling.

Don’t wait—call your nearest Healthway Medical clinic to schedule your vaccination today.

Book Your Vaccination