Singapore Updates National Immunisation Schedule to Include Covid-19 Vaccine
Starting October 12, the Covid-19 vaccine will officially become part of Singapore’s National Immunisation Schedule (NIS). This update marks a significant shift in how the country manages the virus, moving it from a pandemic-era emergency measure to a routine part of long-term public health protection.
Health authorities stated that including the vaccine in the NIS ensures that it remains a standard recommendation for the population. This move aligns Covid-19 protection with other essential vaccinations, such as those for influenza and pneumococcal disease, which help protect individuals from severe illness and hospitalisation.
For most residents, the vaccine will continue to be provided at no cost at government-supported clinics and polyclinics. The Ministry of Health encourages individuals, especially seniors and those with underlying health conditions, to stay updated with their recommended doses to maintain strong immunity against evolving variants.
While the vaccine is now part of the national schedule, it remains voluntary for the general public. However, doctors advise that keeping up with vaccinations is the most effective way to prevent serious complications, particularly as the virus continues to circulate in the community.
This policy change reflects Singapore's strategy of living with Covid-19 as an endemic disease. By integrating the vaccine into the standard immunisation framework, the government aims to simplify healthcare access and ensure that long-term protection is easily available to everyone in Singapore.