Vaccinating your child on time is one of the most important things you can do to protect their health. Singapore's National Childhood Immunisation Programme (NCIP) is administered by the Ministry of Health and provides a clear schedule of vaccines from birth to 18 years. Most vaccines on the NCIP are subsidised for Singapore Citizens and PRs at polyclinics.
Why Vaccinating on Schedule Matters
Vaccines work best when given at the specific ages recommended because that is when a child's immune system can respond most effectively and when they face the greatest risk from certain diseases. Delaying vaccines leaves your child unprotected during a vulnerable period. Herd immunity — where enough of the population is vaccinated to protect those who cannot be — depends on high vaccination coverage. In Singapore, vaccination rates are above 95% for most childhood vaccines.
The Complete Singapore National Childhood Immunisation Schedule
| Age | Vaccine(s) | Protects Against | Subsidised at Polyclinic |
|---|---|---|---|
| At birth | BCG, Hepatitis B (1st) | TB (tuberculosis), Hepatitis B | Yes |
| 1 month | Hepatitis B (2nd) | Hepatitis B | Yes |
| 2 months | 5-in-1 (DTaP-IPV-Hib) (1st), Hepatitis B (3rd) | Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Hib, Hepatitis B | Yes |
| 4 months | 5-in-1 (DTaP-IPV-Hib) (2nd) | Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Hib | Yes |
| 5 months | Pneumococcal (PCV) (1st) | Pneumococcal disease (pneumonia, meningitis) | Yes (from 2022) |
| 6 months | 5-in-1 (DTaP-IPV-Hib) (3rd), Hepatitis B (4th) | Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Hib, Hepatitis B | Yes |
| 7 months | Pneumococcal (PCV) (2nd) | Pneumococcal disease | Yes |
| 12 months | MMR (1st), Varicella (1st), Pneumococcal (PCV) booster | Measles, Mumps, Rubella; Chickenpox; Pneumococcal disease | Yes |
| 15 months | Varicella (2nd) | Chickenpox (stronger protection) | Yes |
| 18 months | MMR (2nd), 4-in-1 booster (DTaP-IPV) | Measles, Mumps, Rubella; Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio | Yes |
| 10 – 11 years (Sec 1 girls) | HPV (2 doses) | Human Papillomavirus (cervical cancer) | Yes (school programme) |
| 10 – 11 years | Tdap booster, OPV booster | Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Polio | Yes (school programme) |
Key Vaccines Explained
BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin)
Given at birth, BCG protects against severe forms of tuberculosis including TB meningitis and TB of the bones. It is given as an injection into the skin of the left upper arm and leaves a small scar. Singapore requires BCG because TB, while controlled, is still present in the region.
5-in-1 Vaccine (DTaP-IPV-Hib)
This combination protects against five serious diseases: Diphtheria (throat infection that can be fatal), Tetanus (lockjaw), Pertussis (whooping cough — particularly dangerous in infants under 6 months), Polio (paralysis), and Haemophilus influenzae type b (bacterial meningitis).
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Measles is highly contagious and can cause brain damage or death. Mumps can cause deafness. Rubella can cause birth defects if a pregnant woman is infected. Two doses of MMR provide over 97% protection. Singapore requires proof of two MMR doses for school registration.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)
Added to the NCIP in 2022 and fully subsidised. Protects against pneumococcal bacteria which causes pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections in young children. Three primary doses plus one booster are given in the first year.
Where to Get Vaccinations in Singapore
- Polyclinics: All NCIP vaccines are subsidised. Book via HealthHub or call directly. Bring your child's health booklet.
- GP Clinics on CHAS: CHAS (Community Health Assist Scheme) GPs also offer NCIP vaccines at subsidised rates for eligible families.
- Private Paediatricians: Available at full cost, typically $50 – $150+ per dose. Convenient but expensive without insurance coverage.
- Hospitals: Generally for children with special medical needs or who require monitoring post-vaccination.
Common Side Effects and When to Worry
- Low-grade fever (under 38.5°C) for 1 – 2 days
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fussiness and reduced feeding for 24 hours
- Drowsiness
- High fever above 39°C that does not come down with paracetamol
- Persistent crying for more than 3 hours
- Seizures or unusual movements
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe swelling at the injection site
What If Your Child Missed a Vaccine?
Missing a scheduled vaccine does not mean starting over. Your doctor will put together a catch-up schedule based on your child's age and which vaccines are outstanding. The important thing is to catch up as soon as possible. Do not wait for the next scheduled appointment if a vaccine was missed — contact your polyclinic or paediatrician immediately to reschedule.
Track Your Child's Vaccination Schedule
Use our Immunization Tracker to enter your baby's date of birth and get a complete personalised schedule showing which vaccines are due, which are coming up, and which are overdue. Keep your child's health booklet updated at every visit and check the Baby Health Hub for more information on keeping your child healthy in the first year.