USA & Canada Travel Vaccines & Health Tips
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.
Higher Institute Study - Approximately 4,400 - 4,600 Singaporeans are studying in the USA as of 2024. The most popular destination aboard for Singaporean students.
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.
- Meningococcal Vaccine (ACWY) - Recommended for students enrolling into USA universities, 1 dose after the age of 16. Many university require it for students under 22 who are living in on-campus housing/dormitory. Certificate may be required for university health clearance.
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 |
| Meningococcal A, C, W-135 and Y Vaccine (Conjugate) - Nimenrix™ |
$150 | 1 dose At least 2 weeks before travel |
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.
Holland Village
255 Holland Ave, Singapore 278983
Near MRT Exit B
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:
8.30am - 2.30pm
5.30pm - 10.00pm
Wed:
8.30am - 2.30pm
Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.
** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.
Katong
437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650
Near Marine Parade MRT
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:
8.30am - 2.30pm
5.30pm - 10.00pm
Wed:
8.30am - 2.30pm
Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.
** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.
