With the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases in Singapore, many are once again asking whether it’s time to receive another booster dose. The pandemic may no longer dominate headlines the way it once did, but the virus continues to evolve and circulate—bringing about waves of infections that pose renewed risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
While Singapore’s high vaccination rate has helped control severe outcomes, waning immunity and emerging variants have made additional boosters a topic of public health focus once more. So, should you consider getting another dose now that a new surge is underway?
This article explores the science behind booster shots, current recommendations in Singapore, and how another COVID vaccination may be an important step in protecting yourself and others.
Why Are Boosters Still Important?
COVID-19 booster shots were introduced as a way to reinforce the body’s immune defence after the protection from the initial series of vaccines begins to decline. Like many other vaccines, the immune response against COVID-19 can diminish over time, which makes boosters essential for long-term protection.
In Singapore, where the population was among the first in Asia to receive vaccines in 2021, many individuals may now have waning immunity—especially those who haven’t received a booster in the last 12 months. As new Omicron subvariants continue to emerge, their ability to partially evade existing immunity has led to renewed concern over community spread.
The COVID vaccination strategy in Singapore has evolved to recommend updated booster shots to target these newer variants more effectively, particularly for high-risk individuals.
What Are the MOH Guidelines?
As of the most recent update from the Ministry of Health (MOH) Singapore, individuals aged 60 and above, residents of aged care facilities, persons with underlying medical conditions, and healthcare workers are strongly encouraged to receive additional booster doses if it has been more than 12 months since their last shot.
For the general population aged 18 to 59, a booster is recommended but optional. The MOH also advises that you may receive your next booster dose at least three months after your last vaccination or infection, whichever is later.
The bivalent mRNA vaccines—specifically designed to offer broader protection against Omicron and other variants—are currently used for boosters in Singapore and have shown improved effectiveness.
Assessing Your Personal Risk
If you’re wondering whether you should get another booster, the first step is to consider your personal risk factors.
- Age: Older adults are at higher risk of complications from COVID-19.
- Health status: Those with chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or lung conditions may benefit from enhanced immunity.
- Occupational exposure: Healthcare workers, teachers, and public-facing professionals are more likely to encounter the virus regularly.
- Household considerations: Living with elderly parents or immunocompromised individuals means your decision also affects their health.
Even if you’re young and healthy, a booster can help reduce the risk of transmission and offer peace of mind during times of rising infection.
Should You Wait for a New Vaccine?
Some people hesitate to receive another booster, thinking a newer version may soon become available. While vaccine development continues, health experts agree that the best protection is timely vaccination based on current availability and risk level.
Waiting indefinitely for a future version of the vaccine may leave you unprotected during a critical period—especially during a surge. The updated bivalent vaccines currently in use already offer a broader immune response and are suitable for most individuals.
Can You Get Boosted After a Recent COVID-19 Infection?
Yes, but timing matters. If you’ve recently recovered from a COVID-19 infection, it’s generally advised to wait about three months before getting your next booster dose. This period allows your body to consolidate natural immunity while ensuring the booster enhances rather than duplicates your existing protection. Consult a medical professional if you’re unsure about when to schedule your next dose.
How Effective Are the Latest Boosters?
Recent studies suggest that the bivalent boosters reduce the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation, and death by reinforcing immune memory. While breakthrough infections may still occur, those who are boosted tend to experience shorter illness duration and milder symptoms.
In Singapore’s context, boosters have played a key role in maintaining a low mortality rate and preventing the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed—even during surges. The benefits of getting a booster far outweigh the minor side effects, which typically include arm soreness, fatigue, or mild fever.
Where Can You Get a Booster in Singapore?
COVID-19 booster shots are available at public health institutions, designated vaccination centres, and selected general practitioner clinics under the Healthier SG and PHPC programmes. Keystone Clinic & Surgery is one such provider offering convenient and reliable COVID vaccination services. Vaccination is free for eligible residents under the National Vaccination Programme. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or timing, healthcare providers can guide you through the process.
Don’t Underestimate the Risks
Even though COVID-19 may feel like less of a threat compared to its early days, the virus still poses serious risks, particularly during community surges. Long COVID, which includes symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath lasting weeks or months, can affect people of all ages—even those with mild initial symptoms.
With each infection, your body incurs some degree of immune response and inflammation. Limiting repeated infections through vaccination is not only about avoiding hospitalisation—it’s about preserving long-term health and quality of life.
Conclusion
In light of the current surge, getting another booster is a prudent and proactive measure. The COVID vaccination remains our best defence against evolving variants, and boosters continue to play a vital role in Singapore’s public health strategy. Whether you’re protecting yourself, your family, or the broader community, taking this small step can have a significant impact. Speak to your doctor today and stay ahead of the curve.
Protect Your Health with a Timely Booster
If you’re considering your next COVID vaccination, now is the perfect time to act. At Keystone Clinic & Surgery, we offer professional advice, timely appointments, and safe vaccine administration—so you can stay protected with confidence.
Visit https://keystonemedical.com.sg to schedule your booster or contact us for personalised support. Let us help you take the next step in safeguarding your health and the health of those around you.
References
Aamc.org. COVID is Surging Again. Here’s the Latest on the New Variants, Updated Vaccines, and Masking. https://www.aamc.org/news/covid-surging-again-here-s-latest-new-variants-updated-vaccines-and-masking
Straitstimes.com. AskST: COVID-19 Cases are Increasing, What Should I Do to Protect Myself?. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/askst-covid-19-cases-are-increasing-what-should-i-do-to-protect-myself
Pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Assessing Potential Surge of COVID-19 Cases. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10559733/