What is an Influenza Vaccine
The influenza vaccine, also called the flu shot, is one of the most effective ways to prevent influenza infection and reduce the spread of flu in the community.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, may lead to hospitalisation or serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or worsening of chronic medical conditions.
About the Influenza Vaccine
The flu vaccine is made from inactivated influenza viruses, meaning it cannot cause illness. Each year, the vaccine is reformulated to protect against the influenza strains most likely to circulate during the upcoming season. Because the influenza virus changes frequently, vaccination is recommended once every year for the best protection.
How Does the Flu Vaccine Work?
The influenza vaccine trains your immune system to recognise and fight influenza viruses. After vaccination, your body produces antibodies that protect you if you are exposed to the virus later in the season. This lowers your risk of infection, helps reduce the severity of illness if you do catch the flu, and prevents spreading it to others.
When to Take The Flu Vaccine for Travels
If you are travelling, you should take the flu vaccine at least 2 weeks before your trip for the vaccine to give better protection.
Northern Hemisphere: if you are travelling to Europe/Japan/USA/Northern hemisphere countries in December, then you should take the Northern hemisphere influenza vaccination around October/November).
Southern Hemisphere: if you are travelling to South America/Australia/New Zealand/Southern hemisphere countries in June - August, then you should take the Southern hemisphere influenza vaccination around October/November).
When to Take The Flu Vaccine in Singapore
If you are not travelling, you should take the flu vaccine in Singapore before the peak seasons, which are May - July, and November - January.
Annual flu vaccine is crucial, as it is updated to provide protection against the most current strains, especially if you are in the high risk groups, or you have family members who are in the high risk groups, such as children below the age of 5 or elderlies above the age of 65, individuals who have Diabetes or an Immunocompromised State.
Who Should Take an Influenza Vaccine
We recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccine each year. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu and are especially encouraged to get vaccinated, including:
- Frequent travellers
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- Caretakers/Parents of young children
- Adults aged 65 years and older
- Pregnant women
- People with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease
- Health care workers
Getting the influenza vaccine is an important step in protecting not only yourself, but also those around you, especially people at high risk of serious complications from the flu.
Benefits of the Influenza Vaccine
Getting a flu jab in Singapore is crucial not only for safeguarding your health but also for protecting those around you, especially people at high risk of serious complications from the flu, such as the elderly and children. Benefits of the influenza vaccine include:
- Prevents influenza infection and reduces risk of serious complications
- Lowers the likelihood of hospitalisation due to flu-related illness
- Protects vulnerable groups such as children, elderly, and pregnant women
- Reduces sick leave days and supports overall productivity
- Provides peace of mind when travelling internationally during flu season
Influenza Vaccines Available
We offer Northern and Southern hemisphere Influenza Vaccines, availability is based on seasonal variation.
1 dose recommended every year. Suitable for all ages.
Example: If you are planning a trip to Japan in December, you should receive the Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine in October or November to ensure the highest level of protection.
Please Note:
Relevant subsidies apply.
Prices are listed in SGD and are for 1 dose of the vaccine ONLY. Prices are exclusive of GST. Mandatory consultation and administration charges are applicable.
*Prices listed were last updated on 1 July 2024. Prices may be subject to change.
Other Travel Vaccines
Regis Medical provides a comprehensive list of travel vaccines catered to your travel plans.
| Vaccine | Price | Why It’s Recommended | Dosage and When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | $88 | Common foodborne illness risk — especially if eating unclean food, night markets, or consuming raw/undercooked food | 2 doses, 6 months apart First dose at least 2 weeks before travel |
| Hepatitis B | $45 | Recommended if there is potential exposure through medical care, tattoos, injuries, or sexual contact | 3 doses: at 0, 1, and 6 months Booster: at least 2 weeks before travel if previously vaccinated |
| Typhoid | $39 | Recommended for travellers staying in rural areas or eating street food frequently | 1 injectable dose At least 2 weeks before travel |
| Pneumococcal | $250 | For travellers age 65 and above or those with chronic heart, lung, liver, or kidney conditions | 1 dose At least 2 weeks before travel |
Why Choose Regis Medical
Finding Us
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.
FAQ
Accessibility & Support
Regis Medical Holland Village is located at 255 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278983
Regis Medical Katong is located at 437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650
Click here to view our opening hoursYes, you can just walk in for Influenza vaccinations. However, we always recommend you booking an appointment in advanced to avoid waiting time.
Appointment
To book an appointment at Regis Medical Holland Village, please call or whatsapp us 8118 5298
To book an appointment at Regis Medical Katong, please call or whatsapp us 9851 3728
You can only cancel or change your appointments up to 24 hours before your appointment. You will receive your refund within 3 working days. No refund will be issued for no shows and cancellations within 24 hours before your appointment.
Yes. You can reschedule your appointments. However, you need to reschedule your appointment at least 24 hours before your actual appointment time.
No refund will be issued for missed appointments.
Finance
We accept Visa/Mastercard/AMEX, PayNow, JCB, UnionPay and ApplePay.
General Enquiry
The number of doses of influenza vaccine required varies depending on a person's age, health status, and whether they have received the vaccine before.
For most people, including healthy adults and children over the age of 2, one dose of the vaccine a year is sufficient.
Although some vaccines can be taken on the same day, it is not advised as you may experience side effects such as nausea, headache, or fever.
You are not advised to take any vaccines if you are ill or feeling unwell as the side effects of vaccines can worsen your existing conditions and symptoms.
Yes, pregnant women can take influenza vaccines.
Side effects of influenza vaccine are signs of your body building up immunity. Influenza vaccines are generally safe and only have mild side effects.
Common side effects after taking vaccinations include:
- Pain, swelling, itchiness, or redness at the area of injection
- Mild fever
- Feeling tired
- Headache
- Muscle and joint aches
- Nausea
If you experience severe side effects after taking vaccines, please see a Doctor immediately.
A flu vaccine is recommended for protection against influenza. MOH recommends everyone to take flu vaccine.
No fasting is required before taking any vaccines.
- Your IC
- Appointment confirmation email if you booked online
- CHAS, Pioneer or Merdeka card if applicable
Please consult our GP Doctors on this question.
You are advised to have your flu vaccine at least 14 days before your flight for the vaccine to take effect.
COVID-19 vaccines do not protect again influenza flu virus. You are still recommended to take flu vaccines.
Transcript
Are you preparing for a holiday soon? Before you pack your bags, there’s something essential you need to add to your checklist.
Hi, I’m Dr. Tan Hue Min from Regis Medical, here to tell you how you can stay healthy while traveling.
Travel Vaccinations
The first thing you should consider is travel vaccinations, such as the influenza vaccine. We highly recommend everyone to take the influenza vaccine before they travel. Influenza outbreaks occur seasonally, and the timing can vary:
- Northern Hemisphere: usually from fall to spring
- Southern Hemisphere: usually from April to September
If you are traveling to Europe, Japan, the USA, or other Northern Hemisphere countries soon, you should consider taking the influenza vaccination now, as the vaccine can take about two weeks to take effect. A single dose of influenza vaccine is sufficient to protect you while you’re away.
This vaccination is particularly recommended for young children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
Other Travel Preparations
Beyond vaccinations, there are some medications you should prepare before your flight in case of emergencies, such as diarrhea, gastritis, flu, and allergies.
Final Note
Protect yourself and your loved ones against influenza and enjoy a pleasant holiday with the influenza vaccine at Regis Medical.
If you have any questions, feel free to let us know in the comments below. We wish you and your family good health and happy travels.