Beyond Childhood: Why Adults Need Vaccinations Too

Why Adults Need Vaccinations

When most people think of vaccinations, they picture childhood jabs that protect little ones from illnesses like measles or whooping cough. But did you know that vaccines remain an important part of staying healthy throughout adulthood?

Whether you’re in your twenties, caring for ageing parents, planning to travel, or managing a chronic condition, vaccinations can help you avoid serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases.

Why Vaccines Matter for Adults

  1. Our immune systems weaken naturally with age.
  2. Some childhood vaccines lose effectiveness over time.
  3. New vaccines have been developed since you were young.
  4. Getting vaccinated will help to protect you as well as vulnerable people, like babies, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

Keeping Track with the NAIS

In Singapore, the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) provides clear, evidence-based recommendations on which vaccines adults should get, and at what age.

Key Vaccines include:

Vaccine Who Should Get It Purpose
Influenza Adults 65+, pregnant women, chronic illness Yearly vaccination recommended
Tdap or Td All adults Booster every 10 years
Pneumococcal Older adults and certain medical conditions One or two doses depending on health status
HPV Women (and some men) Protects against HPV-related diseases

Vaccines for Specific Lifestyles and Needs

Your doctor may recommend additional vaccines based on:

  • Occupation (e.g., healthcare workers)
  • Travel plans (e.g., yellow fever, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis)
  • Health history (e.g., hepatitis A & B, varicella, MMR)
  • Discuss your personal vaccination plan with your family doctor.

How Little Haven Family Clinic Supports You

At Little Haven Family Clinic, we provide:

  • Vaccination reviews for adults and families
  • Travel vaccine consultations
  • Personalised immunisation plans


📍 Conveniently located at City Square Mall and open weekends.

Want to check your vaccine status or get vaccinated? Make an appointment with our GP here.