Singapore is renowned for its advanced healthcare system and proactive public health initiatives, with vaccination being a critical element in its strategy to prevent infectious diseases.
Here are the top ten vaccines that play an essential role in safeguarding public health:
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) Vaccine
The DTaP vaccine protects against three serious bacterial infections:
- Diphtheria: Causes severe throat infection, which can obstruct airways.
- Tetanus: Leads to muscle stiffness and spasms, often fatal if untreated.
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Highly contagious respiratory disease known for severe coughing fits.
In Singapore, the DTaP vaccine is part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS). This ensures that children receive it at various stages of their early development.
2. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
The MMR vaccine is important to prevent the following diseases:
M – Measles is a highly contagious viral disease leading to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis.
M – Mumps is a viral infection affecting the salivary glands that can lead to meningitis and hearing loss.
R – Rubella, also known as German Measles, is a viral infection causing serious birth defects if a woman is infected during pregnancy.
It is mandated by the government that two doses of the MMR vaccine should be given to children to significantly reduce the incidence of these diseases.
3. Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can lead to chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and death. It spreads through contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person. The hepatitis B vaccine is administered right after birth, followed by additional doses.
4. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical cancer, genital warts, and other cancers. In Singapore, the HPV vaccine is recommended for young women and men, ideally before they become sexually active, as a preventive measure against these potentially life-threatening conditions.
5. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)
The PCV protects against pneumococcal diseases, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. In Singapore, this vaccine is part of the NCIS and is administered to infants and young children, significantly reducing the incidence of these serious infections.
6. Influenza Vaccine
The seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended annually for high-risk groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. Influenza can lead to severe complications and hospitalization, and the vaccine helps reduce the burden on healthcare systems and protect vulnerable populations.
7. Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine
The varicella vaccine protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. While typically mild, chickenpox can cause severe complications in certain individuals. In Singapore, the varicella vaccine is recommended for children and susceptible adults, helping to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.
8. Rotavirus Vaccine
Rotavirus causes severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain, primarily affecting infants and young children. The rotavirus vaccine is administered orally and is part of the NCIS in Singapore. This vaccine significantly reduces the incidence of severe rotavirus infections and hospitalizations.
9. Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease that can cause mild to severe illness. It spreads by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for travelers to certain countries, individuals with chronic liver disease, and others who are at risk. In Singapore, the vaccine helps prevent outbreaks, particularly in communities where the virus is more common.
10. Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Japanese encephalitis is a viral brain infection transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily in rural parts of Asia. While not common in urban Singapore, the vaccine is recommended for individuals traveling to or living in areas where the disease is endemic. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is crucial for preventing potentially severe brain infections.
Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health in Singapore, offering protection against a wide array of infectious diseases. The comprehensive immunization schedule ensures that children and adults receive timely vaccinations, contributing to high levels of herd immunity and preventing the spread of potentially deadly diseases. These efforts not only safeguard individual health but also fortify the resilience of Singapore’s healthcare system, ensuring a healthier future for all.
