Review article based on reporting by Zhaki Abdullah, The Straits Times (16 Nov 2025) © SPH Media Limited.
As year-end travel picks up and Singapore moves further into the post-pandemic era, many are questioning whether updated Covid-19 vaccinations are still necessary. Infectious disease experts say yes — for certain groups, and advisable for travellers, given ongoing circulation of new variants.
Updated Vaccines Now Available, Free for All Residents
Since 27 October 2025, Singapore has rolled out updated Moderna/Spikevax and Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty vaccines, designed to target the LP.8.1 variant (a dominant JN.1 descendant in 2025).
- Available at 600+ GP clinics and 10 polyclinics
- Also offered through mobile vaccination teams
- Free for citizens, PRs, long-term pass holders and eligible short-term pass holders
Appointments can be made via vaccine.gov.sg/covid or HealthHub.
Should We Still Be Concerned About Covid-19?
Experts say Covid-19 should be viewed like other endemic respiratory viruses such as influenza, RSV and pneumococcus.
- Not more dangerous than other endemic infections
- But still capable of causing serious illness, especially in older adults and vulnerable groups
Thus, preventing infection remains important.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Singapore’s Expert Committee on Immunisation recommends vaccination for:
- All adults aged 60 and above
- Medically vulnerable individuals (≥6 months old)
- Residents of aged-care facilities
- Healthcare workers and those in close contact with vulnerable people
Those whose last shot was more than 1 year ago should consider a booster, as immunity may wane after ~6 months.
Protection Against Circulating Variants
The updated vaccines protect against LP.8.1, the WHO-monitored variant that dominated global infections in mid-2025.
The newer XFG variant in Singapore and Malaysia is from the same lineage, meaning there is likely cross-protection — though exact effectiveness is not yet known.
Does Vaccine Type Matter?
No strong evidence shows one vaccine is better. Experts advise taking whichever is most convenient.
Singapore may also bring in updated Novavax (protein-based) vaccines for those who cannot take mRNA shots.
Should Travellers Get Vaccinated?
Yes.
Travel increases exposure to respiratory viruses, especially in cold climates or crowded indoor settings. Vaccination reduces the chance of falling sick on holiday.
Flu Shot vs. Covid-19 Shot — Which First?
Both can be taken together if there is no prior history of adverse reactions.
However, flu vaccination may be prioritised during the current influenza surge.
If already showing flu-like symptoms, individuals should wait before taking either jab for optimal immune response.
Source: Zhaki Abdullah, The Straits Times, 16 November 2025.
Original article: “askST: With the pandemic over, should I still get my Covid-19 vaccine shots?” — © 2025 SPH Media Limited.
