As reported by The Straits Times, Singapore is seeing an early uptick in flu cases, with acute respiratory infection visits at polyclinics rising 8% in recent weeks — from about 2,520 daily visits in late August to around 2,730 in early October, according to data from the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA).
While the year-end flu season has yet to peak, health experts are urging residents — especially seniors, young children, and individuals with chronic illnesses — to get their flu shots as soon as possible.
Dr Stephanie Sutjipto, an infectious diseases consultant at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID), explained that after vaccination, the body takes about two weeks to develop immunity. The vaccine introduces antigens, or harmless viral proteins, that train the immune system to recognize and neutralize the flu virus effectively.
Minor side effects, she said, such as mild fever, muscle aches, or soreness at the injection site, usually subside within one or two days. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.
Adjunct Associate Professor Jolene Oon, senior infectious diseases consultant at the National University Hospital (NUH), added that early vaccination is important because the immune response takes time to build up — and exposure during this window could still lead to infection. She also explained why flu vaccines are reformulated every six months: the influenza virus mutates rapidly, requiring updates for the Northern Hemisphere (October–March) and Southern Hemisphere (April–September) versions.
Prof Oon clarified that the vaccine is not tied to travel destinations — Singaporeans should still be vaccinated even if they stay local, as the virus circulates year-round. “The flu shot is the best protection against severe complications such as pneumonia or meningitis, particularly among the elderly and young children whose immune systems are less robust,” she said.
The CDA’s Expert Committee on Immunisation (ECI) recommends annual flu shots for those aged six months to five years, 65 and above, or those aged six to 64 with underlying medical conditions. If a major strain change occurs, an additional dose may be advised.
The Straits Times found that some polyclinic appointment slots were fully booked through the HealthHub app and regional healthcare portals. However, CDA confirmed there is no vaccine shortage, only high demand during the current surge.
For those unable to secure appointments at public facilities, flu vaccinations are also available at GP clinics and retail pharmacies — often with shorter waiting times.
