When most people hear the term “travel vaccines,” they naturally associate it with overseas trips, especially to countries where infectious diseases are more prevalent. However, a common question that arises is whether these vaccines are necessary for individuals who are not planning any international travel. In Singapore’s increasingly interconnected world and diverse population, this question is more relevant than ever.
The answer is: it depends. While many travel vaccines are recommended for specific regions, some offer health protection that extends beyond travel-related exposure. Understanding when and why you might still need these vaccines, despite not planning a trip, can help you make informed decisions about your long-term health.
What Are Travel Vaccines?
Travel vaccines are immunisations recommended or required before travelling to certain countries to protect against diseases that may not be commonly found in Singapore. These vaccines typically guard against illnesses like yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningococcal disease, and Japanese encephalitis.
These vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies, giving you protection if you’re exposed to the virus or bacteria in the future. The benefits of travel vaccines are especially important in regions with limited access to clean water, proper sanitation, or where certain diseases are endemic.
Why Consider Travel Vaccines if You’re Not Travelling?
There are several situations where getting travel vaccines makes sense, even if you’re staying put in Singapore. Here are a few key considerations.
1. Protection Against Locally Present Diseases
While Singapore has excellent public health standards, it is still not immune to diseases that travel vaccines protect against. For example, hepatitis A can be transmitted through contaminated food or water, which could potentially happen at local food stalls or imported food sources.
Some travel immunizations, like hepatitis B, are part of the National Immunisation Schedule in Singapore because of the virus’s potential to spread through bodily fluids and shared personal items. Even if you’re not travelling, being vaccinated can protect you from local exposures that are less obvious.
2. Exposure Through Social or Occupational Settings
You don’t have to travel to contract a travel-related disease. In Singapore, which is a global hub, the population includes people from many countries who frequently travel or come from regions with higher disease prevalence.
Healthcare workers, childcare providers, cleaners, and hospitality staff, for instance, may be exposed to these diseases more frequently due to their occupational environment. Getting travel shots in such cases offers an added layer of protection for individuals working in high-contact or high-risk environments.
3. Herd Immunity and Community Protection
By staying vaccinated, even when not travelling, you contribute to community protection, especially for individuals who cannot receive certain vaccines due to health conditions or age. Travel vaccines such as hepatitis A and B or meningococcal vaccines help reduce the likelihood of disease transmission in crowded or communal spaces such as schools, hostels, or events.
In recent years, Singapore has seen cases of imported infectious diseases, reminding us how quickly such illnesses can cross borders. Maintaining vaccination, including recommended travel vaccines, strengthens our collective resilience.
Travel Vaccines That May Still Be Relevant Locally
While some travel vaccines are clearly intended for specific destinations (like yellow fever for Africa or South America), others are more broadly applicable. Here are a few vaccines you might consider even if you are not planning any trips.
Hepatitis A and B
These are often recommended as travel vaccines for those visiting Asia, Africa, or South America. However, hepatitis B is already a part of the Singapore national immunisation schedule, and hepatitis A can be contracted locally through food contamination. Keeping up to date with these vaccines is important for general protection.
Tetanus and Diphtheria
Often bundled with travel vaccines, the tetanus-diphtheria booster is advised every 10 years. Even a small cut or injury could lead to infection if your immunisation isn’t current. You don’t need to travel to be exposed to tetanus bacteria—it lives in soil and dust.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water. It remains a risk in many parts of Asia, including urban environments with inconsistent food safety. Though more often recommended for travel, a typhoid vaccine could still be beneficial for food handlers or those with weakened immune systems in Singapore.
Post-Pandemic Considerations
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of vaccination, not just as a personal health measure but as a public health strategy. With increased awareness and emphasis on preventing the spread of infectious diseases, many Singaporeans are proactively considering immunisations like travel vaccines, even if travel is not currently on their agenda. Moreover, immunity from earlier vaccinations can wane over time. Those who received certain travel vaccines years ago may now need boosters to stay protected.
Are Travel Vaccines Safe?
Yes, travel vaccines are generally very safe. Like all vaccines used in Singapore, they undergo rigorous testing and are approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Minor side effects, such as mild fever, soreness at the injection site, or fatigue, may occur but typically resolve within a day or two. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine which travel vaccines are appropriate for you, based on your health status, occupation, lifestyle, and prior immunisation history.
How to Know Which Vaccines You Need
If you’re unsure about your vaccination status or whether you need travel vaccines, a consultation at a health clinic is the best first step. During your visit, a doctor will assess your medical history, risk factors, and possible occupational or environmental exposures.
At Keystone Clinic & Surgery, for example, we offer personalised vaccine counselling and can review your immunisation records to recommend appropriate boosters or additional vaccines. Even if you’re not planning to leave Singapore, our proactive approach ensures we have you covered.
Who Should Consider Travel Vaccines in Singapore?
- Healthcare and frontline workers who interact with people from high-risk areas
- Elderly individuals or those with weakened immune systems
- Parents of young children who may bring viruses home from school
- Food and hospitality workers exposed to a wide variety of people and hygiene risks
- Residents in close living quarters, such as dormitories or shared hostels
- People with underlying chronic conditions who face higher risks from infection
Even without a passport stamp, these individuals could benefit from vaccines traditionally viewed as travel-related.
Conclusion
While travel vaccines are typically associated with international travel, they play an important role in protecting health even when you stay in Singapore. The interconnectedness of modern life, ongoing global travel, and local risks mean that certain immunisations offer valuable protection in everyday settings.
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, parent, or simply someone who prefers to stay ahead of potential health threats, considering travel vaccines as part of your preventive healthcare makes sense. It’s a small step that can have long-lasting benefits, for yourself and your community.
Protect Your Health—Even Without Travelling
At Keystone Clinic & Surgery, we believe in proactive health management. Whether you’re preparing for an overseas trip or staying local, our medical team provides expert advice and safe administration of all recommended travel vaccines. Not sure which vaccinations are right for you? Our doctors are here to help assess your health needs and keep your immunisations up to date, even if you’re not planning to travel.
References
Cdc.gov. Travelers’ Health Most Frequently Asked Questions. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/faq
Mayoclinichealthsystem.org. 9 Common Questions About Vaccines and Travel. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/questions-about-vaccines-and-travel
Nhsinform.scot. Travel Health and Vaccinations. https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/travel-health/travel-health-and-vaccinations/