Influenza Vaccine Singapore

What is Influenza / Flu?

Influenza is a common infection that is caused by Influenza virus types A and B. Influenza vaccines can help to prevent this infection, also commonly known as the flu.

Some flu symptoms can include:

• Fever

• Chills

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Muscle Aches

• Sore Throat

• Cough

The protection from the vaccine takes at least 2 weeks to develop, so remember to plan well for your vaccine.

Who should receive the Influenza Vaccine in Singapore?

The influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone, especially individuals who are at high-risk of developing complications. These individuals include:

• Elderly aged 65 years and older

• Pregnant women in any trimester

• Persons with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or heart, lung, liver and kidney disease

• Persons with lower body resistance to infections due to:

• Existing conditions such as leukaemia, HIV, spleen removal, or organ transplant

• Undergoing treatment or using medication such as long-term steroids, certain cancer drugs or radiation therapy

• Residents staying in intermediate or long term care facilities

• Persons aged 18 years or younger and receiving long-term aspirin therapy

• Children aged 6 months old to 59 months

Source: National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) and National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS).

Do I need to take any precautions before receiving the influenza vaccination in Singapore?

Please inform your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to this vaccine or any of the other ingredients of this vaccine

• Have a history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a rare condition where the body’s immune system attacks the nerves)

• Have a severe allergy to eggs

How much does the Influenza Vaccine cost?

​Scheme	Cost
Child	$0
Pioneer Generation (PG)	$9
Merdeka Generation (MG) / CHAS Blue / CHAS Orange	$18
CHAS Green / Non-CHAS	$35

How do I receive the Influenza Vaccination?

The vaccine is given through injection into a muscle or just underneath the skin.

How often should I receive the Influenza Vaccination?

One dose is recommended per year as the influenza virus is constantly evolving. For maximum protection, you may also opt to have it twice yearly as the vaccine is refreshed twice a year with both the northern hemisphere and south hemisphere variants.

For your convenience, our staff can also help make recurring appointments to remind you to keep up to date with your influenza vaccine.

What are some side-effects that require immediate medical attention?

Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis are rare. However, it can happen within minutes to a few hours after vaccination. Symptoms that require medication attention immediately include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face / eyes / lips / tongue

• Difficulty in breathing

• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

What if I am already down with influenza?

You may consult our doctor if you have symptoms. After the consultation, you may opt to do an influenza rapid test at $40 (before GST). The results will be out within 5 minutes. If the results are positive, we may be able to discuss specific treatments that aim to shorten the length of infection.

Why do your vaccination at Advantage Medical?

• Friendly Service: Book your vaccination quickly with us Online,through WhatsApp or Phone. You may also talk to our friendly doctor or staff about any queries. We are happy to understand and address your concerns.

• Islandwide Locations: We are located at 4 islandwide locations (Bedok, Bukit Timah, Geylang, Jurong West) for your convenience.

• National Immunisation Registry (NIR): We will update your influenza vaccine records into Singapore’s NIR. This allows you to view your vaccination records easily so you may know when you are due for a vaccination.

Source: HealthHub.