Travellers

Why is there a need for protection?

Travel may pose risks to travellers because of infectious diseases endemic to the destination.¹

Food and water borne diseases are contracted when food and drinks are consumed from unsafe or unclean sources, which can lead to the contraction of hepatitis A.²

Air borne diseases are spread when you inhale viruses expelled by an infected person, which could lead to influenza or chickenpox.²

Blood borne diseases can be contracted through the exchange of blood and bodily fluids, possibly leading to hepatitis B.²

How can i protect myself?

Vaccination

Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine^{1,2 †}
• 2 doses for adults who have not been previously vaccinated or lack evidence of past infection/ immunity

Hepatitis A^1,3
• 2 doses recommended for travelling to specific destinations^{^}

Hepatitis B^{1 †}
• 3 doses recommended for travelling to specific destinations^{^}

Influenza (INF) Vaccine^{1,2,4-6 †}
• Annual vaccination or per season for all children aged 6 months to <5 years (59 months)
• Annual vaccination or per season for children and adolescents aged 5-17 years with specific medical condition^‡
• 1 dose repeated annually or per season for high-risk adults^#

^† Available vaccines are recommended in the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS).⁵ Vaccinations under the NCIS are fully or partially subsidized for eligible Singaporean Citizens (SCs) and Permanent Residents (PRs) at polyclinics and/or CHAS GP clinics.^7,8 Singaporean adults receive partial subsidies at polyclinics and/or CHAS GP clinics and MediSave can be used to cover the remaining co-payment.^8,9 Under MediSave 500 & Medisave 700, eligible Singaporean can use up to $500 / $700 for approved vaccinations.¹⁰ Under the Outpatient Flexi-MediSave, patients above 60 can use up to $300 for approved vaccinations.¹⁰

^{^}Specific destinations include:¹
• Africa and Middle East: Saudi Arabia (Hajj/ Umrah), Southern Africa, Egypt and Nile River, Middle East, Nothern Africa, Central Africa
• The Americas & the Caribbean: South America, Caribbean, Mexico
• Asia/ Oceania: China, India, Nepal (only for hepatitis A), Papua New Guinea, Southeast Asia

Disclaimer: This is not an exhaustive list, other specific vaccines (e.g. typhoid, yellow fever, rabies) have not been included. Please consult your doctor and refer to the immunisation schedule to determine available options and appropriate dosing.

 

Other Preventive Measures

• Visit a healthcare provider to obtain relevant medical advice at least one month before the trip¹¹
• Only consume food that is cooked and served hot¹¹
• Only consume beverages from sealed containers or water that has been boiled or treated¹¹
• Regular handwashing using soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable¹¹
• Avoid petting or handling animals to prevent animal bites¹¹