Child Vaccination Schedule Singapore 2026: Complete Guide
Vaccinating your child is one of the most important things you'll do as a parent. Vaccines protect not just your little one, but also contribute to herd immunity in Singapore's community.
This comprehensive guide covers the complete 2026 vaccination schedule, costs, where to get vaccinated, and answers to common questions Singapore parents have.
Which Vaccines Are Mandatory in Singapore?
Under Singapore law, two vaccines are legally compulsory:
- Diphtheria — Required under the Infectious Diseases Act
- Measles — Required under the Infectious Diseases Act
Parents who fail to vaccinate their children against these diseases may be fined up to $10,000. Schools and childcare centres also require proof of vaccination for enrollment.
While only two are legally mandatory, the Ministry of Health strongly recommends the full National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) for optimal protection.
National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) 2026
At Birth
| Vaccine | Protects Against |
|---|---|
| BCG | Tuberculosis (TB) |
| Hepatitis B (1st dose) | Hepatitis B virus |
1 to 4 Months
| Age | Vaccines |
|---|---|
| 1 month | Hepatitis B (2nd dose) |
| 2 months | 6-in-1 vaccine (DTaP-IPV-Hib-HepB), PCV (1st dose) |
| 4 months | 6-in-1 vaccine (2nd dose), PCV (2nd dose) |
6 to 18 Months
| Age | Vaccines |
|---|---|
| 6 months | 6-in-1 vaccine (3rd dose), PCV (3rd dose) |
| 12 months | MMR (1st dose), Varicella (1st dose), PCV (booster) |
| 15 months | MMR (2nd dose), Varicella (2nd dose) |
| 18 months | DTaP booster, IPV booster, Hib booster |
School Years (10-11 years)
| Age | Vaccines |
|---|---|
| 10-11 years | Tdap booster, HPV (for girls, 2 doses) |
Understanding Each Vaccine
BCG (Tuberculosis)
Given at birth, this vaccine protects against tuberculosis. You'll notice a small scar on your baby's arm where the injection was given—this is normal and indicates immunity.
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
A combination vaccine protecting against three serious bacterial infections:
- Diphtheria — Affects the throat and can cause breathing difficulties
- Tetanus — Causes severe muscle stiffness
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough) — Severe coughing fits, dangerous for infants
IPV (Polio)
Protects against poliovirus, which can cause paralysis. Singapore uses the inactivated (injectable) version, not the oral drops.
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
Prevents bacterial meningitis, pneumonia, and other serious infections. Particularly important for children under 5.
PCV (Pneumococcal)
Protects against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Combination vaccine for three viral infections. Measles vaccination is legally mandatory in Singapore. Two doses provide approximately 97% protection.
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Prevents chickenpox. While often considered a "mild" childhood illness, chickenpox can cause serious complications including skin infections and pneumonia.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Given to girls at age 10-11, this vaccine prevents cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. The HPV vaccination programme for boys is being considered.
Vaccination Costs in Singapore 2026
At Public Polyclinics
| Status | Cost per Vaccine |
|---|---|
| Singapore Citizen | $10-30 (after subsidies) |
| Permanent Resident | $20-50 (after subsidies) |
| Foreigners | $40-100 |
At Private Clinics
Private GP clinics and paediatric specialists typically charge $50-150 per vaccine. Combination vaccines (like 6-in-1) may cost $150-300.
Good news: You can use your child's Medisave to pay for childhood vaccinations under the NCIS!
Where to Vaccinate Your Child
Public Polyclinics
Most affordable option for citizens and PRs. Book appointments through:
- SingHealth Polyclinics — HealthHub app or website
- NHGP (National Healthcare Group) — NHGP website or hotline
Private Clinics
More expensive but often have shorter wait times. Check if your paediatrician offers vaccination services during regular check-ups.
School Health Service
The Health Promotion Board (HPB) provides vaccinations at primary and secondary schools for scheduled boosters.
Common Myths About Vaccination (Debunked)
❌ Myth: "Vaccines cause autism."
✅ Fact: Extensive research involving millions of children has found no link between vaccines and autism. The original study claiming this link was retracted and the doctor lost his medical license.
❌ Myth: "Natural immunity is better than vaccination."
✅ Fact: While natural infection does create immunity, the risks (brain damage, paralysis, death) far outweigh any benefits. Vaccines provide immunity without the dangerous side effects of actual disease.
❌ Myth: "Too many vaccines overwhelm a baby's immune system."
✅ Fact: Babies encounter thousands of antigens daily. The antigens in all childhood vaccines combined are a tiny fraction of what their immune systems handle naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vaccines are mandatory in Singapore?
Only Diphtheria and Measles are legally mandatory under the Infectious Diseases Act. However, the full NCIS schedule is strongly recommended for complete protection.
Can I use Medisave for vaccinations?
Yes! Medisave can be used for childhood vaccinations under the NCIS. You can use your own or your child's Medisave account. Check the current withdrawal limits with your polyclinic.
What if my child misses a vaccine?
It's never too late to catch up. Contact your polyclinic or paediatrician to create a catch-up schedule. Most vaccines can still be given if doses were missed.
Are vaccine side effects dangerous?
Most side effects are mild and temporary: slight fever, redness at injection site, or fussiness. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare (about 1 in a million). Benefits far outweigh risks.
Can my child go to school without vaccinations?
Schools and childcare centres require proof of mandatory vaccinations (Diphtheria, Measles) for enrollment. Without these, your child may not be admitted.
Should my child get the flu vaccine?
The influenza vaccine is optional but recommended annually, especially for children with chronic conditions. It's available at polyclinics and private clinics.
Tips for Vaccination Day
- Bring your child's Health Booklet — The blue book records all vaccinations
- Dress your baby comfortably — Easy access to thighs and arms
- Bring a comfort item — Favourite toy or blanket helps soothe
- Breastfeed during/after — Studies show this reduces pain
- Stay calm — Babies sense parental anxiety
- Monitor for 15-30 minutes — Stay at the clinic in case of rare reactions
After Vaccination Care
Common reactions in the first 24-48 hours:
- Low-grade fever
- Redness or swelling at injection site
- Fussiness or crying
- Decreased appetite
You can:
- Give paracetamol (appropriate dose for age) for fever or pain
- Apply a cool, damp cloth to the injection site
- Offer extra comfort and feeds
Seek medical attention if:
- Fever above 39°C that doesn't respond to paracetamol
- Signs of allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips)
- Unusual crying lasting more than 3 hours
- Your child seems very unwell
The Bottom Line
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect your child from serious diseases. Singapore's National Childhood Immunisation Schedule is designed based on scientific evidence and protects children at the ages when they're most vulnerable.
If you have concerns about any vaccine, discuss them with your paediatrician. They can address your specific questions and help you understand the importance of timely vaccination.
Remember: When you vaccinate your child, you're not just protecting them—you're helping protect babies too young to be vaccinated, elderly family members, and people with weakened immune systems.