Published on 26 Dec 2024
Influenza, also known as the flu, infects as many as one billion people globally each year. It is a highly contagious disease that affects people of all ages, and can cause serious illness even in healthy individuals.
If you’re over 65 years old, or have chronic health issues such as asthma or diabetes, you’re at a higher risk of severe flu complications. The influenza vaccine serves as your best defense against the flu virus, and can significantly reduce your risk of getting severely ill from complications like pneumonia.
To understand why the influenza vaccine is so crucial, let’s first take a closer look at what influenza is, and how it spreads.
Influenza is a serious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It occurs when the flu virus infects the nose, throat, and in some instances, the lungs.
The infection triggers inflammation, leading to acute symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches. In severe cases, it can cause complications such as respiratory and heart failure, or even death.
Influenza A and B are the most common types of influenza viruses, accounting for the majority of seasonal flu cases globally.
Each year, the flu vaccine is specifically formulated to protect against these two viruses, offering vital defense against seasonal outbreaks.
Influenza spreads mainly through respiratory droplets. When someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks, they release tiny virus-filled droplets. Breathing in these droplets can lead to an infection.
The flu can also spread through indirect contact. Touching a contaminated surface, like a keyboard or doorknob, and then touching your face, nose, or mouth can introduce the virus into your system.
Influenza can develop very suddenly and may last several weeks. Symptoms typically include:
Flu symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses, such as COVID-19 or the common cold. If you're experiencing flu-like symptoms, it's important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis via a nose or throat swab test.
While most people recover from the flu without complications, a minority of individuals, especially those at high risk, may develop more serious and life threatening conditions such as:
Decades of research has proven that the influenza vaccine offers the most effective protection against infection and severe illness caused by the flu.
The vaccine is particularly vital for high-risk individuals such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions, as it significantly reduces their likelihood of hospitalisation and death.
Additionally, vaccination contributes to herd immunity, which occurs when a large portion of the population is vaccinated. This reduces the flu virus's ability to spread, protecting the entire community, including those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and those with vaccine allergies.
The flu vaccine is recommended for all healthy adults, especially frequent travellers, caregivers, and those working in high-risk environments like hospitals, day care and schools.Vaccination is strongly recommended for vulnerable individuals who are more susceptible to severe complications from the flu. They include:
If you or a loved one are at a higher risk of serious complications from the flu, It’s important to protect yourself and those around you by staying up-to-date with annual flu vaccinations.
In Singapore, there are two types of influenza vaccines available.
Both vaccines are inactivated, meaning they do not contain live viruses and cannot cause a flu infection. A single dose, administered through an injection, is generally sufficient to protect you for the entire year.
The flu vaccine is safe for most individuals, but some people may experience mild side effects, such as:
These symptoms are typically short-lived and resolve on their own within a few days.
While the flu vaccine is generally safe, certain individuals should take additional precautions:
In extremely rare cases, the flu vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction, leading to symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or a rapid heartbeat. If any of these occur, seek immediate medical attention.
It’s worth noting that the risk of serious side effects is far lower than the risk of severe complications from the flu itself. The flu vaccine remains the safest and most effective way to protect both yourself and others from severe illness.
The flu virus mutates constantly, leading to the emergence of new strains each year. These changes mean that last year’s vaccine may not effectively protect against the current strains. To provide the best defense, the flu vaccine is updated annually to include the most common strains for the upcoming flu season. This ensures optimal protection against circulating viruses.
Influenza occurs all year round in Singapore, with small spikes in cases typically seen between May to July and November to January. These seasonal peaks often align with outbreaks in other countries, increased travel, school holidays, and the rainy season, which can help the virus spread.
For optimal protection, it's best to get vaccinated early in the season. However, the flu vaccine remains beneficial at any time of the year for ongoing defense.
Keep in mind that the vaccine takes about two weeks to provide full protection. If you have upcoming travel plans, it's advisable to get vaccinated at least two weeks ahead to ensure you're well-protected for your trip.
The influenza vaccine is available at NTUC Health Family Medicine Clinic, along with other participating clinics under the Healthier SG initiative, as well as at most polyclinics and hospitals.
Under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), the flu vaccine is free for children aged 6 months to less than 5 years at CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics.
Children aged 5 to 17 years with certain medical conditions are also eligible for free influenza vaccines at CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics under the NCIS.
Eligible individuals enrolled in Healthier SG can receive free influenza vaccines and other vaccines recommended under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) at their chosen clinic.
Singapore Citizens who are not enrolled in Healthier SG can still enjoy government subsidies for the influenza vaccine at CHAS certified clinics like NTUC Health Family Medicine Clinic, as well as polyclinics.
For those holding a Pioneer Generation (PG), Merdeka Generation, or CHAS Card, refer to the table below for the maximum fee you can expect to pay for the flu vaccination at any CHAS GP clinics. MediSave can also be used to cover any remaining co-payment costs for vaccinations under the NAIS.
| Vaccine | Healthier SG Enrollees at the Enrolled Clinic | Pioneer Generation | Merdeka Generation/CHAS Blue/CHAS Orange | CHAS Green/Non-CHAS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Influenza (trivalent or quadrivalent) | $0 | $9 | $18 | $35 |
Looking to stay healthy this flu season? If you’ve got travel plans or expect to be around crowded places, now’s the time to get your flu shot.
Book your vaccine appointment at NTUC Health Family Medicine Clinic today, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you and your loved ones are protected all year round.
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