Pneumococcal Vaccine Singapore
Reduce Your Risk of Pneumonia
Conveniently located in Orchard, Tanjong Pagar, Jurong East & Novena
Medically Reviewed By: Dr Jana Lim, Board-Accredited Family Physician
Board-Accredited Family Physician | MBChB, MMed (FM)
MBChB, MMed (FM) | Last updated:
What Is the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against illnesses caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common type of bacteria also known as pneumococcus.
Pneumococcal bacteria can spread through the body and cause serious infections, especially in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Conditions commonly linked to pneumococcal infection include:
- Pneumonia – an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, often causing cough, fever, and difficulty breathing
- Otitis media — a painful middle ear infection, especially common in children
- Meningitis — a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord
- Bacteraemia – a serious condition where the bacteria enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis or organ failure
Symptoms of Pneumococcal Disease
- Low-grade fever and coughing
- Ear pain
- Chest discomfort
In more severe cases, particularly involving meningitis or bloodstream infection, additional symptoms such as confusion or disorientation, severe headache, and sensitivity to light or a stiff neck may occur. These serious signs require immediate medical evaluation.
Types of Pneumococcal Vaccines
- PCV13 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) — targets 13 different strains of pneumococcal bacteria
- PCV20 (Prevenar 20) — a newer conjugate vaccine covering 20 strains in a single dose
- PPSV23 (Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine) — protects against 23 strains
Receiving both PCV13 followed by PPSV23 may offer enhanced immune protection, especially in vulnerable groups.
Who Should Receive the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
- Babies — Their developing immune systems make them more vulnerable to serious complications from pneumococcal disease
- Adults with chronic health conditions — Conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, and organ dysfunction can weaken the body’s defences, increasing susceptibility to infection
- Seniors aged 65 and above — Ageing is associated with a natural decline in immune function, making older adults more prone to invasive pneumococcal diseases
- Individuals with specific medical conditions — Those with cochlear implants or reduced spleen function are at greater risk of severe or recurrent pneumococcal infections
If you are uncertain whether the vaccine is suitable for you, consult a doctor for individual medical advice.
How Is the Pneumococcal Vaccine Given?
The vaccine is administered as an intramuscular injection, typically in the upper arm.
Pneumococcal Vaccine Schedule
| Age Group | Vaccine Type | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Infants | PCV13 | 2 doses at 3 and 5 months, booster at 12 months |
| Adults (18 years and older) | PCV13 | 1 dose |
| Adults (18–64 years) | PPSV23 | 1 or 2 doses, based on medical indication |
| Adults (65 years and older) | PPSV23 | 1 dose |
How Long Does the Pneumococcal Vaccine Last?
The protection offered by the pneumococcal vaccine is long-lasting, often extending for several
years.
For most adults aged 65 and above, a single dose of PCV13 followed by one dose of PPSV23 is typically
sufficient to provide extended, long-lasting protection against the most
common pneumococcal strains.
However, individuals with certain medical conditions or weakened immune systems may require additional doses
based on their doctor's recommendation.
What Precautions Should I Take Before the Pneumococcal Vaccination?
Before receiving the vaccine, inform your doctor if you:
- Have known allergies to vaccine components
- Are pregnant or currently breastfeeding
- Have a medical history involving Guillain-Barré Syndrome or a bleeding disorder
Pneumococcal Vaccine Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and short-lived. These may include:
- Pain or swelling at the injection site
- Headache
- Light-headedness or general fatigue
Seek medical advice if any symptoms become severe or do not resolve.
Rare But Serious Reactions to Watch For
Although uncommon, some individuals may experience severe allergic responses. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Swelling of the face or eyes
- Difficulty breathing
- Generalised itchy rash
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs occur after vaccination.
Disclaimer: This overview does not cover all possible side effects or medical considerations. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice before receiving any vaccination.
Pneumococcal Vaccine Price in Singapore
At Singapore Women's Clinic, we offer pneumococcal vaccination, subsidised under CHAS and Healthier SG for eligible patients, with prices as follows:
| Subsidy Scheme | Vaccine | Subsidised Price Per Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Healthier SG–enrolled individuals aged 65 and above OR adults with specified health conditions | PCV13 | $0 |
| PCV20 | $0 | |
| PPSV23 | $0 | |
|
PG Card
|
PCV13 | $16 |
| PCV20 | $17 | |
| PPSV23 | $11 | |
|
MG Card
|
PCV13 | $31 |
| PCV20 | $34 | |
| PPSV23 | $22 | |
|
CHAS Blue / Orange, Singaporeans aged 18 to 64 with certain medical conditions
|
PCV13 | $31 |
| PCV20 | $34 | |
| PPSV23 | $22 | |
|
CHAS Green / Non-CHAS
|
PCV13 | $63 |
| PCV20 | $68 | |
| PPSV23 | $43 | |
| All Others / Walk-in | PCV13 | $136.25 |
| PCV20 | $147.15 | |
| PPSV23 | $93.74 |
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.
Payment Options We Accept
MediSave can be used to offset out-of-pocket costs for the PCV20 (Prevenar 20) vaccine.
Who is eligible:
- Adults aged 65 and above, OR
- Adults aged 18 and above with any of the following:
- Chronic medical conditions (diabetes, chronic lung, heart, liver, or kidney disease)
- Cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid leaks
- Immunocompromising conditions
MediSave claim limits:
- MediSave500/700 scheme — up to $500 per year (or $700 per year if the patient has a complex chronic condition)
- Flexi-MediSave — an additional $400 per year, for seniors aged 60 and above
To find out if you are eligible, please enquire with us directly.
Why Choose Our Vaccination Services?
Same-Day Appointments
Book in the morning and have your vaccination the same day, at any of our clinics.
One-Stop Clinic
Get several vaccines in one visit, so you are not making a separate trip for each one.
Proof of Vaccination
Receive official documentation at no extra cost, for travel, school or work.
