Quick answer. The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis and bloodstream infection (sepsis). In Singapore it is recommended for young children, adults aged 65 and older, and people with chronic illness or a weakened immune system.
Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can range from a mild ear or sinus infection to serious illness such as pneumonia, meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain) and sepsis. The very young, older adults and people with certain health conditions are most at risk of the severe forms, which is why the pneumococcal vaccine is part of Singapore’s national immunisation programmes.
If you are wondering whether you or a family member should be vaccinated, this guide explains what the vaccine protects against, the difference between the conjugate (PCV) and polysaccharide (PPSV23) types, who is recommended to have it, and how subsidies and MediSave can help with the cost in Singapore.
At a glance
| Vaccine type | Examples | Typically for |
|---|---|---|
| Conjugate (PCV) | PCV13, PCV15, PCV20 | Infants and young children; many adults |
| Polysaccharide | PPSV23 | Adults and older children at higher risk |
| Number of doses | Varies by age and vaccine | Schedule set by your doctor |
| Main protection | Invasive pneumococcal disease | Pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis |
| Where to get it | GP clinics, polyclinics, paediatricians | Bring your immunisation records |
What is the pneumococcal vaccine?
The pneumococcal vaccine is an immunisation that helps the body build protection against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common bacterium that can cause pneumonia, meningitis and bloodstream infection. There are two broad families of vaccine: pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV, such as PCV13, PCV15 and PCV20) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). They cover different sets of bacterial strains, which is why some people are advised to have more than one type.
In Singapore, pneumococcal vaccination is included in the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule for infants and in the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for older and higher-risk adults. Your GP can advise which product and how many doses are appropriate for your age and health.
Who needs it?
Pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for groups most at risk of severe disease:
- Infants and children under 2 years, as part of the childhood schedule
- Adults aged 65 years and older
- People with chronic heart, lung, liver or kidney disease
- People with diabetes
- People with a weakened immune system, including those without a functioning spleen
- Smokers and others advised by their doctor
If you are unsure whether you fall into a recommended group, your GP can review your medical history and immunisation records.
How it works and the schedule
The vaccine teaches your immune system to recognise the sugar coating of the pneumococcus bacteria, so your body can respond quickly if it is exposed later. It does not contain live bacteria and cannot give you pneumococcal disease.
The schedule depends on age and the specific product. Infants receive a course of conjugate vaccine in their first months of life with a booster in the second year. Adults may be offered a single dose of a conjugate vaccine, a dose of PPSV23, or both in a particular sequence, depending on age and risk. Because the recommended combinations are updated over time, the most reliable approach is to ask your doctor what is current for your situation rather than relying on older guidance.
Safety and side effects
Pneumococcal vaccines have been used for many years and have a good safety record. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived:
- Soreness, redness or swelling where the injection was given
- Mild fever, especially in young children
- Tiredness, reduced appetite or irritability in infants
- Muscle aches in adults
These typically settle within a day or two. Serious allergic reactions are very rare. Tell your doctor before vaccination if you have had a severe reaction to a previous dose or to any vaccine component.
Cost, NAIS subsidy and MediSave
Pneumococcal vaccines are covered under Singapore’s national immunisation programmes for eligible groups. Subsidies are available at polyclinics and Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) GP clinics for those who qualify under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule and the National Adult Immunisation Schedule. MediSave can also be used to help pay for nationally recommended vaccines, within the usual MediSave limits.
Because eligibility and the exact subsidy depend on your age, citizenship status and where you go, it is best to confirm the current arrangements with your GP clinic or to check the latest details on HealthHub before you book.
When to see a doctor and where to go
For most people, pneumococcal vaccination is a routine, planned appointment with a GP rather than something urgent. You should arrange a review with a doctor if you are aged 65 or older, have a chronic medical condition or weakened immune system and are not sure whether you are up to date.
After vaccination, see a doctor promptly if you develop a high fever that does not settle, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash. For any severe breathing difficulty or collapse, call 995 or go to the nearest A&E immediately. To arrange your vaccination or discuss whether it is right for you, see one of the best GP clinics in Singapore.
What to expect at the appointment
Pneumococcal vaccination is usually a planned visit. The doctor will review your age, medical conditions and immunisation records to decide which product and how many doses you need, as the recommended combinations differ between conjugate vaccines and PPSV23. Bring any vaccination records you have, especially if you have had a pneumococcal jab before, so the doctor can advise the right next step. The vaccine is given as an injection into the upper arm, and the clinic will note when any further dose is due.
After the vaccine
Most reactions are mild: a sore arm, mild fever or tiredness for a day or two, and in young children some irritability or reduced appetite. These usually settle quickly with rest and, if needed, paracetamol. If a fever is high or does not settle, or if you notice signs of a more serious reaction such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty, seek medical care promptly.
Common questions
I had a pneumococcal jab years ago. Do I need another?
Possibly. Recommendations have changed over time and some people benefit from an additional or different type of pneumococcal vaccine. Your doctor can check your records and advise.
Can I have it at the same time as my flu jab?
Often yes. These vaccines can usually be given at the same visit, in different arms. Your doctor will confirm what is suitable for you.
Does the vaccine prevent all pneumonia?
No. It protects against pneumococcal disease specifically, which is a major cause of severe pneumonia, but not against every cause of pneumonia. Good general health measures still matter.
Related guides
- Best GP & Family Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- GP & family clinics directory
- Flu vaccine
- MMR vaccine
- RSV vaccine
- Shingles vaccine
- Chickenpox vaccine
Sources
- HealthHub Singapore – Vaccinations
- Ministry of Health Singapore – National Adult Immunisation Schedule
- NHS – Pneumococcal vaccine
- Mayo Clinic – Pneumonia
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