National Immunisation Registry
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ - All about Laws & Regulations in Immunisation
Q1. How does the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) get vaccination records?
After administration of the vaccination, doctors are required to notify the NIR of vaccinations given under the National Child Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS).
Q2. When did diphtheria and measles vaccinations become compulsory in Singapore?
Diphtheria vaccination was made compulsory in 1977. Measles vaccination was introduced from Oct 1976 and made compulsory in August 1985 for children ages 1-2 years.
Q3. When was the law changed for smallpox vaccination?
The smallpox vaccination was required by law for all children to be administered within 6 months after birth. It was no longer mandatory by law in 1981.
Q4. Is there a governing body for immunisation in Singapore?
Yes. The NCIS and the NAIS were developed based on recommendations of the Expert Committee on Immunisation, which comprises specialists from various disciplines such as infectious diseases, microbiology, paediatrics and public health as well as representatives from both the public and private healthcare institutions.

This committee regularly reviews the immunisation programmes in Singapore. The committee also closely follows the recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Q5. When was the two-dose measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccination schedule introduced?
In January 1998, the two-dose MMR vaccination schedule was introduced with the second dose given to primary school leavers (11-12 years of age). In 2011, both doses were brought forward to 12 months and 15-18 months respectively. In 2020, the timing of the second dose was changed to 15 months, with MMRV replacing MMR.
Q6. When was MMR vaccine introduced?
The monovalent measles vaccine, first introduced in October 1976, was replaced by the trivalent MMR vaccine in January 1990.
Q7. Is there a penalty for not vaccinating my child against measles and diphtheria?
Vaccination against measles and diphtheria is a requirement of the law.

Under the Infectious Diseases Act and the Infectious Diseases (Diphtheria and Measles Vaccination) Regulations, it is compulsory for parents and guardians to have their child vaccinated against measles and diphtheria. There will be a fine as penalty for non-compliance.
FAQ - General
Q1. What is the age range that NIR keeps vaccination records for?
The NIR maintains the immunisation records recommended under the NCIS for children born from 1996 onwards, for vaccines taken from birth to 17 years of age. For adults 18 years and above, the NIR maintains immunisation records under the NAIS taken after November 2017.
Q2. How can I access my child's records?
To access your child's records, you would need to have a Singpass account.

For eligibility and application for Singpass, please visit:
https://portal.singpass.gov.sg/home/ui/support
Q3. Why is it important to follow the recommended immunisation schedule?
Babies are born with some natural immunity which they get from their mother and through breastfeeding. This gradually wears off as the baby's own immune system starts to develop.

The NCIS comprises childhood vaccinations recommended as the standard of care for protection against vaccine preventable diseases that are of significant healthcare burden to Singapore or would be so without these vaccinations.

It is important to follow the immunisation schedule as delaying immunisation can leave a baby unprotected.

For adults, it is important to follow the NAIS as it provides guidance on vaccinations that persons age 18 years or older should adopt to protect themselves against vaccine- preventable diseases.
Q4. Do I need to bring my child's health booklet when I bring my child for vaccination?
When your child is vaccinated, the details will be entered into your child's Personal Health Booklet (provided at birth).

It is important to remember to take this document along with you at the time of vaccination.

This record may be requested by childcare centres or schools, as proof that your child is up to date with immunisations before enrolment.
Q5. How does NIR get my child's records?
Your child will automatically be added to the Registry when he/she receives his/her first vaccination.
Q6. Why use Singpass?
Singpass protects your privacy by giving you your personal online identity and password to authenticate your online access. Singpass employs Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) methods such as the Singpass app, Face Verification and SMS One-Time Passwords (OTP) to provide an additional layer of security and better protect users' data.
Q7. Is there anyone who should not receive immunisation?
Those who have a history of allergy should check with their doctor before getting vaccinated. There are also contraindicated groups for each vaccine, and it is recommended that you consult your doctor should you have any concerns.
FAQ - Certificate
Q1. I've lost the certificate of vaccination. How can I get a replacement?
You may approach your doctor who will be able to re-issue the certificate of vaccination.
Q2. Do I receive a certificate of vaccination when my child has completed all the vaccinations?
Yes. Upon completion of all the immunisations, your doctor should issue the certificate of vaccination.

This certificate may be requested by childcare centres or schools, as proof that your child is up to date with immunisations before enrolment.
Q3. My child have yet to receive a certificate from the clinic. Can I request for one?
Yes, you can request for the certificate from the clinic where the vaccinations were done.

Should you require the certificate earlier, do contact the clinic and request for one.
Q4. How can I download a copy of my child's immunisation records?
You can now view and print your child's immunisation records by following the steps below:
1. Access our website (www.nir.cda.gov.sg/nirp/eservices/login)
2. Click on “Singpass” icon on the left-hand side of the web page to log in.
3. The system will redirect to Singpass and after you login, you will be brought back to the NIR website.
4. Click “My Child”.
5(A). If your child's account has not been linked to yours,
  1. Enter your child's ID or child's name with date of birth. Click "Search".
  2. Click "Link As Dependant" (checked box on the right) to link your child's account to yours.
  3. Click on child's ID.
5(B). If your child's account has been linked to yours, click on child's ID.
6. Click on print icon.
7. Your child's immunisation history will be generated in "pdf" format.
8. Save the document and print.
This self-printed document can be used for future school enrolment.
FAQ - Retrieval of Immunisation Records
Q1. Would it be possible for me to retrieve my immunisation records if I am above 21 years old?
The School Health Service only started using digital medical and immunisation records in 1990. Available records are kept until the child reaches the age of 21 years after which the data will be archived.

To retrieve the records, please write to:
Youth Preventive Health Service
Health Promotion Board
3 Second Hospital Avenue
Singapore 168937

or email: Contact_YPS@hpb.gov.sg
FAQ - Vaccines and Vaccination
Q1. Why is immunisation important?
Vaccinations help build your immune system by strengthening it against serious infectious diseases and protect you from potentially life-threatening complications.

While improvements in sanitation and hygiene have played an important part in controlling the spread of infectious diseases, vaccination is critical for the control of these diseases.

Without vaccination, individuals remain susceptible to the infectious agents causing these diseases.
Q2. What is the difference between 6-in-1 (Hexa) and 5-in-1?
The 6-in-1 vaccine consists of vaccine components against::
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertusiss, haemophilus influenza type B, polio and hepatitis B.

While the 5-in-1 vaccine consists of vaccine components against:
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertusiss, haemophilus influenza type B, and polio.

For more information, please consult your doctor.
Q3. When was BCG vaccination introduced in Singapore?
BCG vaccination began in the mid-1950s as part of the childhood immunisation programme.
Q4. When did BCG revaccination by School Health Service discontinued?
As of 1st July 2001, BCG revaccination by School Health Service was discontinued.
Q5. Are Permanent Residents (PR) required to pay for the free vaccinations in the polyclinics?
Yes, PRs have to pay at a discount for the free vaccinations offered to Singapore citizens.

Please consult the polyclinics regarding the cost.
Q6. Are pneumococcal & rotavirus vaccination required?
Rotavirus vaccination is not compulsory in Singapore.

Pneumococcal vaccination (PCV10 or PCV13) is recommended for infants at 4 months (dose 1), 6 months (dose 2) and 12 months old (1st booster). PPSV23 is recommended for children ages 2-17 years old with specific medical condition or indication.

You can refer to the NCIS here or consult your doctor should you require more information.
Q7. What are some side effects of vaccination? What should parents/guardian do if their child/ward has a reaction?
Mild side effects, such as low-grade fever or pain and redness at the site of injection are expected and will go away on their own. Severe side effects are very rare. Getting vaccinated is much safer than getting the infections or complications that result from these infections.

Side effects How to manage
Pain, redness or swelling at the site of the vaccination.
  • Apply cold compress to the affected area if redness or swelling occurs.
  • Medicines like paracetamol (e.g. Panadol) may be given to relieve the pain.
  • Slight fever, tiredness or poor appetite
  • Headache, mild giddiness
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
  • Ensure good hydration with plenty of clear fluids such as water for the next few days.
  • Please bring your child/ward to the doctor if symptoms are persistent or he turns unwell.
A mild rash (that lasts for two days) may occur 5 to 12 days after the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccination. Please bring your child/ward to the doctor if the rash is persistent or he/she turns unwell.
FAQ - All about Hepatitis B
Q1. Can a person who has eczema be safely immunised with the hepatitis B vaccine?
A person who has mild to moderate eczema should not have any problems receiving the vaccination. If a person has severe eczema, he/she should check with his/her doctor for advice.

For the hepatitis B immunisation programme in schools, a child with mild eczema should be able to receive the vaccination in school. A child with severe eczema will be referred to the Student Health Centre at the Health Promotion Board for the vaccination.
Q2. Is the hepatitis B vaccine safe?
The hepatitis B vaccine has been available since 1982 and has shown to be very safe. The vaccine is made using recombinant DNA technology and does not contain any live components of the hepatitis B virus.
Q3. Are there any side effects for hepatitis B vaccination?
The most common side effects are pain at the injection site and mild to moderate fever. Serious side effects reported after receiving hepatitis B vaccine are rare.
Please see a doctor if these side effects do not get better or become worse.
Q4. Would an asthmatic person have any problems receiving the hepatitis B vaccine?
There should not be any problems with an asthmatic person receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. You are recommended to consult your doctor for further advice.
Q5. Can a person who has or has just recovered from flu/ sore throat/ cough/ fever receive the hepatitis B vaccine?
If a person is feeling unwell, he/she should check with a doctor before receiving the vaccine.
FAQ - All about Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)
Q1. What is the implication if a child misses his MMR vaccination?
For adequate herd immunity, 95% is required. Herd immunity refers to the immunity of a group or community (the herd). The resistance of a community to the invasion and spread of an infectious agent is based upon the resistance to infection of a high proportion of individual members of the community.

If the infectious agent is not able to find a susceptible person in the community to infect, it cannot maintain itself and spread in the population. Mass vaccination can result in herd immunity.

In theory, if the MMR vaccination coverage is below 95%, there is always a risk of outbreaks of the diseases concerned. This means that children without the vaccine protection will be susceptible to being infected with the diseases.

If a parent forgets or is too busy to get his child immunised against MMR, the child could potentially fall ill with measles, mumps or rubella. As a result, the child may suffer the risk of complications of the illness that may have long term consequences.

Furthermore, the parents are putting other susceptible children at risk if those children are exposed to their child with infection. These children may be too young to be vaccinated or not able to be vaccinated for medical reasons. When many children are not vaccinated, it is easy for the disease to be introduced into the community.
Q2. Should parents be concerned at all about the MMR vaccine?
Vaccines, like any medicine, may have some side effects. These side effects are generally mild. Getting vaccinated is much safer than getting the infections or complications that result from these infections.
Q3. Are there reasons why some children cannot receive their MMR vaccination?
If a child is allergic to the MMR vaccine, or has a suppressed immune system due to leukaemia, taking oral steroids for a prolonged period, or has moderate to severe illness then the child may not be suitable for the MMR vaccine. Parents are recommended to consult their doctor for further advice.

However if a previously healthy child has a fever such as from a cold, the child will be able to take the MMR vaccine upon recovery. When in doubt, parents should consult a doctor.
Q4. Is there a relationship between MMR vaccine and autism?
Some parents are concerned about the link between the MMR vaccines and autism, however, there is no scientific evidence to support this belief. Do consult a doctor if you have any concerns.
Q5. I received a letter from my child's school informing me to bring my child for MMR vaccination. When I refer to the health booklet, it was given. What should I do?
You can inform the clinic, where your child received the vaccination, to notify NIR if the vaccination was done in Singapore. If the vaccination was done overseas, please submit a request to update the missing vaccination record via www.nir.cda.gov.sg/nirp/eservices/login.
FAQ - Update Record
Q1. How can I update my child's vaccination record?
For vaccinations taken in Singapore, you may inform your doctor/clinic to update the records via the NIR website.

For vaccinations taken overseas, you may approach your local doctor to update in the NIR. An administrative fee may be charged by the clinic for updating the records.

Alternatively, you may submit a vaccination update request via the NIR Portal. The processing time may take about 10 working days (excluding weekends and public holidays) provided that the documents submitted are clear and complete. It may take longer during the school registration period.

Please be informed that from 12 May 2025 (inclusive), all new requests pertaining to updating of vaccination records can only be processed through submission via the NIR portal. These include the addition of new vaccination record(s) or amendments to existing record(s). To submit your request, please visit the NIR portal: National Immunisation Registry.
Q2. I received a reminder letter asking me to send my child for a vaccination; however the vaccination has already been given. What should I do?
The reminder letter may have been sent before the notification record was received.

Please inform the NIR of the details through Parent's Portal. Supporting documents should be included for verification.
Q3. I've received a letter asking me to update my child's vaccination record. Will the NIR be able to get the information from my GP instead?
Yes. Please inform the NIR of your doctor's particulars together with your child's birth certificate number.
Q4. My family is currently living overseas or has recently moved to Singapore. My child's vaccinations were done overseas. How do I update his records?
You can update the NIR to include overseas vaccination records by submitting a request via www.nir.cda.gov.sg/nirp/eservices/login.
Q5. Why are some of my child's vaccinations not updated, e.g., Prevenar?
Records are only available for vaccinations under the NCIS if notified accordingly.

Should you wish for other vaccinations that are not under NCIS to be updated in the NIR, you can request for your doctor to update the records via the Doctor's Portal
Q6. My child's vaccinations were all done overseas. How do I continue my child's vaccination in Singapore?
Please consult your doctor on the vaccination needs for your child.

If you are planning to bring your child to the polyclinic, you will have to first update your child's records in the NIR. After the records are updated, please make an appointment with the respective polyclinic before you bring your child down for the vaccination.
FAQ - Myths and Addressing Misinformation
Q1. Myth : Vaccination is no longer necessary because most diseases have been eliminated by improved hygiene and sanitation.
Modern sanitation and good hygiene practices like handwashing can slow the spread of and prevent infectious diseases. But immunization provides your body protective antibodies which can fight off diseases. Good hygiene cannot do that.
Q2. Myth : Vaccines cause many harmful side effects, and even death and may cause long-term effects.
Most vaccine side effects are mild, such as low-grade fever or pain and redness at the site of injection and will go away on their own. Severe side effects are very rare. Getting vaccinated is much safer than getting the infections or complications that result from these infections.
Q3. Myth : Vaccine-preventable diseases have been virtually eliminated, so there is no need for my child to be vaccinated.
It's true that vaccination has enabled us to reduce most vaccine-preventable diseases to very low levels in Singapore. However, some of them are still quite common in other parts of the world.

Travelers can unknowingly bring these diseases into Singapore, and if we were not protected by vaccinations these diseases could quickly spread throughout the population, causing an outbreak.

We should be vaccinated, then, for two reasons. The first is to protect ourselves. Even if we think our chances of getting any of these diseases are small, the diseases still exist and can still infect anyone who is not protected.

The second reason to get vaccinated is to protect those around us. There is a small number of people who cannot be vaccinated (for reasons such as severe allergies to vaccine components), and a small percentage of people don't respond to vaccines. These people are susceptible to disease, and their only hope of protection is that people around them are immune and cannot pass disease along to them
Q4. Myth : Giving a child more than one vaccine at a time increases the risk of harmful side effects and can overload the immune system.
Scientific data shows that getting several vaccines at the same time does not cause any chronic health problems. A number of studies have been done to look at the effects of giving various combinations of vaccines, and when every new vaccine is licensed, it has been tested along with the vaccines already recommended for a particular aged child. The recommended vaccines have been shown to be as effective in combination as they are individually. Sometimes, certain combinations of vaccines given together can cause fever, and occasionally febrile seizures; these are temporary and do not cause any lasting damage.

The advantages of combination vaccines or multiple vaccinations given at same visit are:
  1. Ability to render children protection as early as possible in their lives during the vulnerable early months.
  2. Saving parents time and money, given that giving several shots at the same time means fewer visits.; this can also be less traumatic for the child.
 
Last Reviewed on 1 Apr 2025