MOH introduces updated monovalent vaccines for stronger immunity against current Covid-19 strains
Starting from October 30, 2023, Singapore residents aged six months and older are encouraged to receive an additional Covid-19 vaccine shot as part of the updated vaccine rollout. The Ministry of Health (MOH) announced that the new Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty and Moderna/Spikevax monovalent vaccines will offer stronger protection against current and emerging strains of the virus, such as the Omicron subvariants EG.5, XBB.1.5, and XBB.1.6.
These updated vaccines, which will replace older versions of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, are available for free to Singapore citizens, permanent residents, long-term pass holders, and some short-term pass holders under the National Vaccination Programme. The roll-out schedule is as follows:
Oct 30: Pfizer-BioNTech for individuals aged five years and above
Nov 14: Moderna/Spikevax for individuals aged six months and above
Nov 20: Pfizer-BioNTech for children aged six months to four years
The MOH has recommended the additional dose for those at high risk, including people aged 60 and above, medically vulnerable individuals, and residents of aged care facilities. Healthcare workers and household members/caregivers of vulnerable individuals are also strongly encouraged to get the booster shot.
Vaccinations can be received at any Joint Testing and Vaccination Centre (JTVC), Public Health Preparedness Clinic (PHPC), or polyclinic. The MOH assures that the updated vaccines are as safe as the previous versions, offering enhanced protection for vulnerable populations.
