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Pneumococcal Vaccines
Pneumococcal disease is a significant health concern in Singapore, but the good news is that it’s largely preventable through vaccination. This article provides a comprehensive overview of pneumococcal vaccines in Singapore, guided by the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS), including who should get vaccinated, the available subsidies, and what to expect.
Protecting Public Health: The Role of Pneumococcal Vaccines
Pneumococcal disease is caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria and can lead to serious and life-threatening infections such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs), meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord linings), and bacteremia (bloodstream infection). In Singapore, pneumonia is a leading cause of hospitalization and mortality, particularly among the elderly and individuals with chronic health conditions. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against these severe illnesses.
NAIS Recommendations: Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) provides guidance on vaccinations that are important for adults in Singapore.For pneumococcal vaccination, the NAIS recommends it for the following groups who are at a higher risk of developing severe pneumococcal disease:
Age-based Recommendations:
- Adults aged 65 years and older are strongly encouraged to receive the pneumococcal vaccine.
Recommendations for At-Risk Individuals (18 to 64 years old):
Individuals in this age group with certain chronic medical conditions are also recommended to get vaccinated. These conditions include:
- Chronic lung diseases
- Chronic heart diseases
- Chronic liver diseases
- Diabetes mellitus
- Chronic kidney disease
- Immunocompromising conditions (e.g., HIV infection, cancer, or long-term immunosuppressive therapy)
- Cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid leaks
Available Pneumococcal Vaccines in Singapore
Under the NAIS, there are several types of pneumococcal vaccines available:
- Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13 and PCV20): These vaccines provide protection against 13 and 20 strains of pneumococcal bacteria, respectively.
- Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23): This vaccine protects against 23 strains of the bacteria.
Your doctor will recommend the most suitable vaccine or combination of vaccines for you based on your age, medical history, and previous vaccinations.
Making Vaccination Affordable: CHAS Subsidies
To encourage uptake and ensure accessibility, the Singapore government provides subsidies for pneumococcal vaccinations under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS). The amount of subsidy varies depending on the CHAS card tier (Blue, Orange, or Green), as well as for Pioneer and Merdeka Generation members.
Healthier SG enrollees may be eligible for fully subsidized pneumococcal vaccinations at their enrolled clinic.
The Upside of Vaccination: Key Benefits
Getting vaccinated against pneumococcal disease offers substantial health benefits:
- Prevents Severe Illnesses: The primary benefit is the prevention of serious and potentially fatal diseases like pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia.
- Reduces Hospitalizations: By preventing severe infections, vaccination helps to reduce the likelihood of hospitalization and its associated costs and stresses.
- Protects the Vulnerable: When more people are vaccinated, it creates community protection (herd immunity), which helps to safeguard those who are most vulnerable, including young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you are protected against these serious diseases can provide significant peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Understanding the Side Effects
Pneumococcal vaccines are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, like any medication, they can have side effects, which are usually mild and temporary. Common side effects include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
These symptoms typically resolve on their own within a few days. More severe reactions are very rare. If you have any concerns about potential side effects, you should discuss them with your doctor.
Take a step towards a healthier you!
Pneumococcal vaccination is a vital tool in safeguarding the health of Singaporeans, especially the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions. With the support of government subsidies through CHAS, getting vaccinated is both accessible and affordable.
Speak to your doctor to find out if you are eligible and to get your protection against pneumococcal disease.
When you're ready, we're here to help you get vaccinated.
Book an appointment with us today!
Read our previous article!
References:
- Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) (2025) New vaccines against shingles and pneumococcal disease added to National Adult Immunisation Schedule. Available at: https://www.chas.sg/News-and-Events/new-vaccines-against-shingles-and-pneumococcal-disease-added-to-national-adult-immunisation-scheduleÂ
- HealthHub (2023) Pneumococcal Vaccine. Available at: https://www.healthhub.sg/medication-devices-and-treatment/medications/pneumococcal-vaccineÂ
- HealthHub (n.d.) National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS). Available at: https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinateÂ
- HealthHub (n.d.) Principal Causes of Death. Available at: https://www.healthhub.sg/support-and-tools/statistics-on-healthcare/principal-causes-of-deathÂ
- HealthXchange.sg (n.d.) Pneumonia: Causes and Symptoms. Available at: https://www.healthxchange.sg/how-to-prevent/severe-bacterial-viral-fungal-parasitic-infections-e-g-meningitis-pneumonia-skin-and-soft-tissue-infection-endocarditis-bone-and-joint-infections-liver-splenic-abscesses/pneumonia-causes-symptomsÂ
- Healthier SG (n.d.) Enjoy fully-subsidised nationally recommended screenings and vaccinations with Healthier SG (for Singapore Citizens). Available at: https://www.healthiersg.gov.sg/files/P0934191_MOH_HSG_Brochure_EN_FA_RGB__compressed.pdfÂ
Author
Dr Koh Tingyi
MB BCh BAO, MMed (Family Med)
Dr Koh is a Family Physician at Frontier Healthcare with a special interest in Chronic Disease Management, Paediatrics, Women’s Health and Care Planning . She currently practices at Clementi and Jurong West.Â
