What Vaccines Does My Baby Need in Singapore?
The full 2024 National Childhood Immunisation Programme schedule: which vaccines are free, where to get them, and what parents choose to add.
The Full NCIP Schedule
The National Childhood Immunisation Programme (NCIP) sets out the recommended and mandatory vaccinations for Singapore children. All vaccines in the NCIP are available free of charge at polyclinics for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents.
| Vaccine | Age(s) Given | Doses | Free at Polyclinic | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCG (Tuberculosis) | At birth | 1 | Yes | Given at hospital at birth |
| Hepatitis B (HBV) | Birth, 1 month, 5 months | 3 | Yes | First dose given at hospital |
| DTaP-IPV-Hib (Combination 5-in-1) | 3, 4, 5 months; 18 months booster | 4 | Yes | Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Hib |
| PCV13 (Pneumococcal) | 3, 5 months; 12 months booster | 3 | Yes | Prevents bacterial meningitis and pneumonia |
| MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) | 12 months; 15 to 18 months | 2 | Yes | Mandatory for school entry |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | 12 months; 15 to 18 months | 2 | Yes | Mandatory for school entry |
Additionally, HPB recommends annual influenza vaccination for all children 6 months to under 5 years, and from age 12, Tdap booster (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) at secondary school.
Free vs Paid Vaccines
All NCIP vaccines are free at polyclinics. However, if you see a private paediatrician (PD), you will pay a consultation fee (typically S$30 to S$80) on top of the vaccine, even for NCIP vaccines. Some private PDs bundle the consultation and vaccine into a package.
Free at Polyclinics
- BCG, Hep B (3 doses), DTaP-IPV-Hib (4 doses)
- PCV13 (3 doses), MMR (2 doses), Varicella (2 doses)
- No appointment needed for well-baby visits at polyclinics
- Health booklet updated at each visit
Optional (Parent Choice, Not Free)
- Rotavirus: S$200 to S$400 per dose (2 or 3 dose series)
- Influenza: S$30 to S$70 per year
- Meningococcal: S$200+ per dose
- Hepatitis A: S$80 to S$100 per dose (2 doses)
- Claimable via Medisave at approved clinics
Where to Get Vaccinations in Singapore
Free NCIP vaccines, well-baby checks, and developmental assessments. Your child's health booklet is managed here. For most families, polyclinics are the most practical and affordable option for the routine NCIP schedule.
NCIP vaccines available (you pay consultation fee), plus optional vaccines. Advantage is continuity of care and relationship with a specific PD. Appointment-based, typically faster and more personal than polyclinics for routine visits.
Both hospitals offer vaccination services. Useful for children with complex medical conditions who need specialist oversight during vaccination.
Catching Up on Missed Vaccines
If your child has missed any NCIP vaccines, catch-up is always possible. You do not need to restart a series that has already begun. Your polyclinic or PD will advise on the appropriate catch-up schedule based on your child's current age and vaccination history.
One important exception: The rotavirus vaccine (optional) has a strict age deadline. The first dose must be given before 15 weeks of age, and the full series must be completed before 32 weeks. After this, the risk of intussusception (a serious bowel complication) increases if the vaccine is given late. If you want rotavirus vaccine for your baby, discuss this with your PD early.
Medical disclaimer: this schedule is based on the current NCIP as published by HPB/MOH Singapore. Vaccination schedules are subject to periodic review. Always verify the current schedule with your healthcare provider or at healthhub.sg.