Expanded Measures to Enhance Protection Against COVID-19
Children aged 5 to 11 are now advised to receive a booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty vaccine at least five months after completing their primary vaccination series. This measure aims to sustain protection against severe illness and bolster defences for a potential year-end COVID-19 wave, announced the Multi-Ministry Task Force (MTF) on Aug. 24.
Vaccination Timeline and Logistics
The booster campaign is set to commence in the fourth quarter of 2022, after primary school examinations conclude. Five dedicated Vaccination Centres (VCs) will be established island-wide to administer the doses. Further details will be shared closer to the rollout date.
Extended Vaccination for Younger Children
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has recently approved the use of Moderna’s Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for children aged six months to five years under the Pandemic Special Access Route (PSAR). A decision on this vaccination recommendation is expected soon. If approved, the rollout will coincide with the booster campaign for children aged 5 to 11 at the same VCs.
Second Booster for Seniors and Vulnerable Groups
The Ministry of Health (MOH) now recommends a second mRNA COVID-19 booster for individuals aged 60 and above, to be taken five months after their first booster. This update follows evidence of waning immunity over time and is intended to strengthen defences against severe illness.
Studies show that a second booster increases vaccine effectiveness against severe disease:
From 94% to 97% for ages 70–79
From 97% to 98% for ages 60–69
Medically vulnerable individuals are also encouraged to receive their second booster dose. Previously, the second booster was recommended only for those aged 80 and older, with an option for individuals aged 50–79.
Access to Vaccination Services
Eligible residents can walk into any of Singapore’s 10 Joint Testing and Vaccination Centres (JTVCs) to receive their primary vaccination, first booster, or second booster. Appointments can also be booked via SMS invitations at JTVCs, participating Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs), or polyclinics.
Preparing for a Possible Year-End Wave
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung emphasised the importance of high booster coverage, noting that 80% of the population has received at least one booster dose. This widespread coverage has enabled Singapore to manage the BA.5 variant without imposing stricter safety measures, reducing severe cases and hospital strain.
To ensure readiness for a potential year-end surge, vaccination coverage will continue to expand, reinforcing community immunity.
