Welcoming a new baby into the world is an incredible journey, filled with both joys and new responsibilities. One of the most important things you’ll do in the first years is help protect your little one from serious illnesses through vaccinations.
This baby vaccine guide provides you with a clear, step-by-step overview of the essential vaccines, why they matter, and how they work to keep your child safe. From the first few days to their toddler years, we’ll cover what you need to know about each vaccine, when it’s recommended, and tips for a smooth experience.
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines work by introducing a harmless part of a virus or bacteria, stimulating the immune system to recognise and remember it. This “practice” response helps the body quickly fight off the real infection if exposed later.
Side effects of vaccines that parents should be aware of
For new mums and dads, it’s normal to feel concerned about potential vaccine side effects for your baby. Most reactions are mild and pass quickly, including slight fever, redness, or swelling at the injection site, and sometimes increased fussiness or sleepiness. Occasionally, a mild rash can appear after certain vaccines, like the MMR. These side effects are signs the body is building immunity, and they usually resolve within a day or two.
Serious reactions are rare, but if you notice anything unusual, like persistent high fever or extensive swelling, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.
What vaccines are important to note for your kids’ growth
These vaccines are vital for protecting children in Singapore against preventable diseases, following the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) guidelines, with many required for school and childcare admission.
The schedule follows best practices for immunity-building, helping ensure long-term health for each child. You can refer to the calendar below as a guideline provided y the government.
1. Hepatitis B (HepB)
Timing: Birth, 1 month, and 6 months.
Purpose: This vaccine is crucial for preventing hepatitis B, a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to lifelong complications. In babies and young children, hepatitis B can progress to chronic liver disease, which increases the risk of liver failure and liver cancer later in life.
Status: Required.
2. BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin)
Timing: At birth.
Purpose: The BCG vaccine provides protection against tuberculosis (TB), particularly the more severe forms like TB meningitis, which primarily affect young children. TB is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can affect the lungs and spread to other organs.
Status: Required.
3. Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
Timing: 3 doses at 3, 4, and 5 months, with boosters at 18 months and 10–11 years.
Purpose: This combination vaccine protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, which can cause severe respiratory issues and heart complications; tetanus (lockjaw), leading to painful muscle spasms affecting breathing; and pertussis (whooping cough), which causes violent coughing fits, particularly dangerous for infants.
Status: Required.
4. Polio (IPV)
Timing: 3 doses at 3, 4, and 5 months, with boosters at 18 months and 10–11 years.
Purpose: Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause paralysis and even be fatal. Before the vaccine was widely available, polio outbreaks left thousands of children disabled each year. The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) works to protect the nervous system from polio’s paralysing effects, ensuring your child is safe from this virus, which can still be found in some parts of the world.
Status: Required.
5. Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib)
Timing: 3 doses at 3, 4, and 5 months, with a booster at 18 months.
Purpose: The Hib vaccine targets Haemophilus influenzae type b, a bacterium that can cause severe infections such as bacterial meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis (a life-threatening swelling in the throat).
Status: Recommended but commonly administered.
6. Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13)
Timing: 3 doses at 3, 5, and 12 months.
Purpose: Prevents pneumococcal disease, which can cause severe infections like pneumonia. The PCV13 vaccine gives children strong immunity against these infections, helping them avoid hospitalisation and long-term health issues.
Status: Recommended but mandatory for infant care enrolment.
7. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Timing: First dose at 12 months, second dose at 15–18 months.
Purpose: Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, which can lead to serious complications. Measles causes high fever, rash, and can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can be fatal. Mumps results in painful swelling of the salivary glands and can lead to complications like hearing loss. Rubella is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause severe birth defects in developing babies.
Status: Required.
8. Varicella (Chickenpox)
Timing: First dose at 12 months, second dose at 15–18 months.
Purpose: The varicella vaccine protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious virus causing an itchy, blistering rash and fever. While typically mild, chickenpox can lead to serious complications, especially in infants or individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccinating children against varicella reduces their risk of severe symptoms and complications.
Status: Recommended.
9. Hepatitis A (HepA)
Timing: Given at 12–24 months (optional).
Purpose:The HepA vaccine protects against hepatitis A, a virus that infects the liver and can cause symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. The virus spreads easily in contaminated water and food.
Status: Optional but recommended.
10. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Timing: For girls, two doses at 11–12 years.
Purpose: Protects against HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer and other cancers.
Status: Strongly recommended for girls.
11. Meningococcal Vaccine
Timing: Optional, often for high-risk groups or travelers.
Purpose: Meningococcal vaccines prevent bacterial meningitis, a fast-progressing infection of the brain and spinal cord linings. This serious illness can cause brain damage, hearing loss, and death. Recommended for children in high-risk groups or traveling to areas where meningococcal disease is more common.
Status: Optional but recommended for at-risk children.
12. Seasonal Influenza
Timing: Annually, starting from 6 months of age.
Purpose: The flu vaccine guards against seasonal influenza, a respiratory illness that can lead to severe symptoms in children, including high fever, body aches, and respiratory complications. Young children are especially vulnerable to flu-related hospitalizations and complications, like pneumonia.
Status: Recommended.