Pneumonia remains a common and serious health threat in Singapore. According to the Ministry of Health Singapore, it is the fourth leading cause of hospitalisation and the third leading cause of death locally, accounting for more than 4,000 deaths each year. The risk is especially significant among older adults and individuals with chronic conditions.
The new generation pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, PCV20 (20-valent), was approved in March 2023 by the Health Sciences Authority. Developed by Pfizer (brand name APEXXNAR), it provides protection against up to 20 common pneumococcal serotypes, offering broader coverage compared to earlier vaccines. Singapore was also the first country in Southeast Asia to approve this vaccine.
Importantly, PCV20 is indicated for adults aged 18 and above. In many cases, only a single dose is required to achieve comprehensive protection, helping to simplify the vaccination process.
For adults aged 65 and above, as well as those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart and lung diseases, pneumococcal vaccination is a key step in reducing the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.
Getting vaccinated early is not only about protecting yourself, it is a proactive step towards reducing the risk of serious infection.
Tham Clinic provides pneumococcal vaccination services. Please feel free to contact us for more information or to make an appointment.