USA & Canada Vaccines & Health Tips from Singapore Doctors
by: Dr. Paul Chang, General Practitioner, Regis Medical
Travel smart with vaccine advice, cold weather prep, and GP-approved health tips from Regis Medical Singapore Doctors.
Why Singaporeans Love the USA & Canada
Whether it's exploring the bustling streets of New York City, soaking in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, or heading to top universities and family road trips, the USA and Canada remain top long-haul destinations for Singaporeans.
In 2023, over 190,000 Singaporeans travelled to North America — for leisure, education, business, and more.
Best time to go:
- April–June (spring)
- September–October (autumn foliage)
- December–February (winter for skiing or festive holidays)
Popular cities: New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Boston, Seattle
Popular for: Sightseeing, university visits, national parks, snow holidays, shopping, family travel
Both countries offer visa-free or easy visa access for short-term visits and are well-known for world-class infrastructure, stunning landscapes, and diverse experiences — from Broadway to Banff.
Vaccines to Consider Before Going to the USA or Canada
Recommended Vaccines for the USA or Canada:
- Influenza Vaccine – Strongly recommended during North American flu season (October–March), especially in cold climates and crowded areas.
- Pneumococcal Vaccine - For travellers age 65 above and those with chronic conditions.
Routine Vaccines when travelling:
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before travelling to the USA or Canada.
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTAP)
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Shingles Vaccine
*For the latest and complete list of required or recommended vaccines for specific parts of the USA or Canada, please refer to official sources such as MOH, WHO, or CDC.
| Vaccine | Price | Recommended Dosage |
| Influenza Vaccine | $45 | 1 dose annually Take at least 2 weeks before travel |
| Pneumococcal (Prevenar 20) | $250 | 1 dose At least 2 weeks before travel |
Our doctor may recommend a serology (antibody) test to check your immunity levels. In some cases, a booster dose may suffice.
Prices are listed in SGD for 1 dose only and exclude GST. Mandatory consultation and administration charges apply.
*Prices last updated on 1 July 2024. Subject to change.
Pre-Travel Health Screening & Advice
Who should screen?
- Elderly
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Winter sports travellers (skiing, snowboarding)
Suggested tests:
- Hepatitis A/B immunity check
- General health review if staying long-term or doing outdoor activities
- Glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure monitoring (especially for older travellers)
Pack These: Emergency Medications & Health Kit
For desert climates and high-dust environments, we recommend:
- Cold & flu meds (paracetamol, lozenges)
- Moisturising lip balm
- Nasal spray (for dry air in flights/heated rooms)
- Eye drops (dry climate and cabin air)
- Motion sickness tablets (for mountain roads or long drives)
- Heat packs or thermal patches
- Plasters, antiseptic wipes
- Anti-diarrhoea meds (if sampling unfamiliar foods)
- Hand sanitiser and extra masks (airports and public transport)
While You’re There: Protecting Your Health
Stay hydrated – Especially on long-haul flights or in dry climates
Layer up – Winter can drop to –10°C or lower in parts of Canada and northern USA
Use humidifiers – In hotels with dry heating
Wash hands often – Especially in flu season or busy areas
Eat warm, cooked food – Particularly during winter to support digestion
Apply sunscreen – Even in snow (UV rays reflect off snow and ice)
After You Return: Post-Travel Watchlist
Be alert for:
- Fever, chills, or respiratory symptoms
- Digestive upset or fatigue
- Symptoms of flu or COVID after long-haul flights
If symptoms develop within 7–10 days of return, consult a GP. At Regis Medical, we offer rapid flu, COVID, and post-travel infection tests, along with treatment plans tailored to travellers.
Travel Health Checklist
✅ Vaccines completed
✅ Winter wear packed (thermals, gloves, scarf, jacket)
✅ Meds packed
✅ Travel insurance arranged
✅ Emergency contact card in bag
✅ Nearest hospital of your destination bookmarked
Planning a trip to the USA or Canada?
Visit Regis Medical for a Pre-Travel Vaccines and Health Consult — personalised for your destination, itinerary, and health needs.
