Pneumococcal Vaccines Singapore
Updated: Sep 27
Pneumococcal vaccines help to prevent pneumococcal disease caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. This bacteria often causes infections in the lungs, ear, brain and bloodstream.
There are 2 types of Pneumococcal Vaccines available, the Pneumococcal Conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and the Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23)
Due to the serious infections that Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause, PCV13 and PPSV23 are both subsidised vaccines under Singapore's Vaccination Programmes:
National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS)
In Singapore, infants are recommended to get their PCV13 vaccinations at 4months (Dose 1) and 6months (Dose 2), followed by a booster dose at age 12 months (Booster 1). If a child misses the PCV13 vaccine, catch up vaccination is recommended before the age of 59months.
Singaporean residents vaccinated under NCIS in our clinics will get FULLY SUBSIDISED vaccinations. Book your appointments here.
National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS)
Adults above the age of 65 are recommended to get 1 dose of PCV13 followed by a dose of PPSV23 1 year later. This should confer lifetime protection after both vaccines are completed.
In adults with Diabetes, Lung, Kidney or Liver conditions, a dose of PPSV23 is recommended between ages of 18-65 years. A full list of medical conditions for which PPSV23 is recommended can be found here.
Singaporean Residents may avail of national subsidies under NAIS at our CHAS clinics. Learn more here:
Source: Healthhub https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate
Price of the Pneumococcal Vaccine
The original prices of the pneumococcal vaccines are $180 for PCV13 and $92 for PPSV23.
Is the Pneumococcal Vaccine Free for Elderly in Singapore?
After government subsidies, eligible Singaporeans above 65 will copay between $10-$20 for PPSV 23 or $16 to $31 for PCV13.
How is the Vaccine Administered?
The vaccine is given via intramuscular injection into the deltoid (arm) for adults, or the anterolateral thigh for children.
Common Side Effects
Soreness or redness at injection Site
Fever, Headache, Bodyaches
Giddiness (usually transient)
Most side effects go away within the first 3 days and simple painkillers like paracetamol can be taken if you do not have any allergies.
Is the Pneumococcal Vaccines Compulsory in Singapore?
The vaccines are not compulsory but are highly recommended for those above 65 years old or with chronic medical conditions like diabetes, heart, lung or liver conditions. Speak to our doctors today to see if the Pneumococcal vaccines might benefit you.
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 Pneumococcal 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.
References:
[1] Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. (2019, December). Pneumococcal vaccine. HealthHub. https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/medications/375/Pneumococcal-Vaccine
[2] Nationally recommended vaccines. Ministry of Health. https://www.moh.gov.sg/resources-statistics/nationally-recommended-vaccines