Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious and preventable diseases. In Singapore, the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) outlines the recommended vaccinations that children should receive from birth through adolescence to ensure they are protected against a wide range of potentially life-threatening infections.
Understanding the importance of these vaccinations and how they contribute to both individual and public health is essential for parents and caregivers. This article will delve into the details of the NCIS, the vaccines included in the schedule, and the benefits of timely immunisations for children.
What Are Children NCIS Vaccinations?
The Children National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) refers to a series of vaccines recommended by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore for all children under the age of 18. These vaccines are provided at no cost to Singaporean citizens and are delivered through the public healthcare system, ensuring equal access for all families.
The NCIS is designed to protect children from a variety of infectious diseases, including those that are highly contagious and can result in severe health complications, long-term disabilities, or even death.
The vaccines recommended under the NCIS are based on global health guidelines and are reviewed periodically to keep pace with the latest developments in medical research and emerging infectious diseases.
Immunising children according to the NCIS not only protects individual health but also contributes to the wider community by maintaining herd immunity, which helps prevent the spread of infections.
The Importance of Immunisations for Children
Vaccinations play a critical role in public health. They help prevent outbreaks of diseases that can otherwise spread rapidly, especially among young children. Some of these diseases can cause long-term effects, including neurological damage, hearing loss, or even death.
For instance, illnesses such as measles, polio, and whooping cough were once common worldwide but have been largely eradicated in countries with strong vaccination programs.
The benefits of immunisation extend beyond individual protection. By vaccinating children, communities as a whole are less likely to experience widespread outbreaks of preventable diseases. When a high percentage of the population is vaccinated, the spread of disease is slowed, and vulnerable groups—such as infants who are too young to be vaccinated or individuals with weakened immune systems—are also protected through herd immunity.
Key Vaccines in the NCIS
The NCIS consists of several vaccines that are given at different stages of childhood. Each vaccine protects against a specific set of diseases that are either highly contagious or dangerous to children’s health. Below are some of the key vaccines included in the children NCIS vaccinations:
Hepatitis B Vaccine (HBV)
The Hepatitis B vaccine is given to newborns to protect them against the Hepatitis B virus, which can lead to chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer later in life. The vaccine is usually given within 24 hours of birth, with follow-up doses at 2 and 6 months of age.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis Vaccine (DTaP)
This combination vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). These diseases can cause severe illness and complications, including breathing difficulties, heart failure, and even death in young children. The DTaP vaccine is given at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months, with booster doses at 5 years and 12 years.
Polio Vaccine
The polio vaccine is crucial for preventing poliomyelitis, a viral infection that can cause paralysis and death. In Singapore, children receive the polio vaccine at 2, 4, and 6 months, with a booster dose at 18 months. Polio vaccination has played a key role in eradicating the disease globally, but ongoing immunisation is necessary to maintain this protection.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine (MMR)
The MMR vaccine protects against three viral infections: measles, mumps, and rubella. These diseases can cause serious complications, including encephalitis (brain inflammation), hearing loss, and birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. The MMR vaccine is typically administered at 12 and 15 months.
Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib) Vaccine
Hib is a bacteria that can cause severe infections, including meningitis, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. The Hib vaccine is given at 2, 4, and 6 months, with a booster dose at 18 months.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)
The PCV vaccine protects against pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. This vaccine is given at 4, 6, and 12 months.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV)
The HPV vaccine is given to adolescents at the age of 13 years and the second dose at 14 years old. to protect against HPV-related cancers, such as cervical cancer, and genital warts. It is offered to both boys and girls to ensure broad protection against HPV infection.
When Should Your Child Receive These Vaccines?
The NCIS outlines a strict vaccination schedule that ensures children are immunised at the optimal age for maximum effectiveness. The vaccination schedule is divided into two phases: the early childhood phase (from birth to 5 years) and the adolescent phase (ages 12 to 18 years).
- First Phase (Birth to 5 Years): This phase includes vaccines that are most effective during infancy and early childhood, such as Hepatitis B, DTP, polio, Hib, and rotavirus vaccines.
- Second Phase (12 to 18 Years): This phase includes the MMR vaccine, varicella vaccine, and the HPV vaccine for adolescents.
Ensuring your child is vaccinated according to the schedule is crucial for optimal immunity. Delays in vaccination can leave your child vulnerable to serious diseases. As a parent or caregiver, it is important to track your child’s immunisation appointments and keep a record of the vaccines they’ve received.
Benefits of Following the NCIS Schedule
Following the NCIS schedule ensures that your child is protected from a range of preventable diseases. Here are the key benefits:
- Protection from Severe Diseases
Vaccines help protect children from diseases that can cause long-term health complications, hospitalisation, and death. For instance, polio and measles were once widespread but are now rare thanks to effective vaccination programs. - Herd Immunity
When a large portion of the population is vaccinated, it makes it more difficult for diseases to spread. This protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, pregnant women, or those with weakened immune systems. - Lower Healthcare Costs
By preventing diseases that require expensive treatment, vaccines reduce the overall healthcare burden. Early vaccination helps avoid the high costs of treating preventable illnesses.
How to Ensure Your Child Gets the Recommended Vaccines
To ensure your child receives the recommended vaccinations, follow these tips:
- Track Vaccination Schedules
Keep a record of the vaccines your child has received and the upcoming ones. Your healthcare provider will also give you a vaccination booklet to help you track progress. - Consult Your Doctor
If you are unsure about any of the vaccines or have concerns about side effects, consult your doctor or healthcare provider. They will offer advice and answer any questions you may have. - Stay on Schedule
Ensure your child receives vaccines on time to protect them at the earliest opportunity. If your child misses a vaccine, consult your healthcare provider to reschedule as soon as possible.
Book Your Child’s Vaccination Appointment Today
Vaccination is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your child’s health. If you need more information about the NCIS or want to schedule a vaccination appointment for your child, contact Keystone Clinic & Surgery.
Our experienced healthcare professionals are here to ensure your child receives the best care possible. Visit Keystone Clinic & Surgery and schedule your child’s vaccination today to ensure they stay protected!
References
Healthhub.sg. All You Need to Know About Childhood Immunisations. https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/all-you-need-to-know-about-vaccinations
Cda.gov.sg. Vaccinations. https://www.cda.gov.sg/public/vaccinations
Pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. The Implementation and Impact of a Revised National Childhood Immunization Schedule in an Urban Asian Community. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9319496/