Parenting comes with countless decisions, and vaccinations are among the most important ones. While the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) in Singapore includes many essential vaccines, some, like the rotavirus vaccine, are optional. But what exactly is rotavirus, and why might this vaccine be worth considering for your baby? Here’s a guide to help you navigate this decision.
What is Rotavirus (commonly known as stomach flu or stomach bug)?
Rotavirus, often referred to as the stomach flu or stomach bug, is a common virus that most children will encounter by the age of five. It spreads easily through contaminated surfaces, food, or water, causing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. For young children, these symptoms can quickly lead to dehydration, which may require hospitalisation.
In Singapore, rotavirus remains a significant cause of gastroenteritis in children, accounting for about 30% of paediatric hospitalisations due to diarrhoea. While hospital care is widely accessible here, the impact of the virus on children and families can still be considerable.
Why rotavirus vaccination matters, and when to get it
Rotavirus infections can often be managed at home with rest and hydration, but for infants and toddlers, the situation can escalate quickly. Severe dehydration caused by the virus may require urgent medical care, sometimes even hospitalisation. Vaccinating against rotavirus helps protect young children from severe illness, reduces hospital admissions, and limits the virus’s spread in communal settings like childcare centres and preschools.
Globally, rotavirus remains a leading cause of diarrhoea-related deaths among young children, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access. In Singapore, while fatalities are rare, the impact on families and healthcare resources can still be significant. Vaccination provides a proactive way to ease this burden, offering peace of mind to parents and protection for vulnerable children.
The best time to vaccinate is early — starting at two months of age and completing the series by six months — to ensure your child is protected during their most vulnerable years.
The vaccine is most effective when administered early, starting at two months of age. The full course should ideally be completed by six months. Delaying vaccination beyond eight months is generally not recommended, as the vaccine is not licensed for use in older infants. For families with older children in preschool or babies in childcare, vaccination may provide added protection against exposure to rotavirus.
Rotavirus vaccine in Singapore
The rotavirus vaccine is not included in the NCIS and is therefore optional. It is, however, available at DA Clinics and Doctor Anywhere’s home-based vaccination service, and is recommended for young children within specific age guidelines.
Vaccine options:
- RotaTeq: A three-dose vaccine administered at 2, 4, and 6 months.
- Rotarix: A two-dose vaccine given at 2 and 4 months.
Both vaccines are taken orally and must be completed before the child reaches eight months of age.
Cost of rotavirus vaccine in Singapore
The rotavirus vaccine is not included in the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), so it is not subsidised and must be paid out-of-pocket. The cost varies by healthcare provider. For example, at Doctor Anywhere, the vaccine costs $107 per dose at a DA Clinic, or $140 per dose for home-based vaccination.
It’s important to note that MediSave cannot be used to cover the cost of the rotavirus vaccine, as it is not part of the mandatory immunisation schedule.
Safety and effectiveness of the rotavirus vaccine
The rotavirus vaccine is a proven and effective way to protect young children from severe rotavirus infections, reducing the risk by up to 90%. While mild side effects like fussiness or low-grade fever may occur, severe reactions are extremely rare. If your child has underlying health conditions, speaking with a GP or paediatrician can help address any concerns and provide personalised advice.
Although not part of the mandatory immunisation schedule, the rotavirus vaccine is worth considering as part of your child’s overall health plan. Like other optional vaccines for illnesses such as influenza and chickenpox, it adds an extra layer of protection against a common and potentially serious virus.
If you’re unsure whether the vaccine is right for your child, consulting a GP or paediatrician can provide clarity on the benefits, potential risks, and best timing. Making an informed decision early can help protect your child during their most vulnerable years and offer peace of mind for your family.
For the convenience of home-based vaccinations, click here to schedule your child’s appointment.
