Knowing your kid's vaccination

All you need to know for your baby's compulsory vaccinations.

You may not be aware that there are 5 important vaccines that are mandatory by law in Singapore. They are safe, with no harm to your baby.

#1 BCG Vaccine

This is administered at birth and may produce a raised lesion at injection site of injection, usually appears 2-3 weeks later but will heal with a small scar. BCG prevents lung tuberculosis (T.B), which is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that can affect other organs.

#2 Hepatitis B Vaccine

This vaccine is given in 3 doses (at birth, 1- and 5/6-months) and prevents liver Hepatitis B, which spreads through infected blood, saliva or other body fluids.

#3 DTP/Polio/Hib Vaccine

This consists of 4 doses (at birth, 3-, 5- and 18-months). A booster of DTap and Polio is also given at 11 years of age. This vaccine may cause fever (within 48 hours) and swelling at injection site.

What is DPT (Diptheria, Pertussis and Tentanus)?

Diphtheria is a serious infection that begins with sore throat and fever, but may quickly escalate to serious fatal complications such as heart failure and paralysis.

Pertussis causes prolonged coughing and breathing difficulty.

Tetanus is transmitted by cuts or puncture wounds, which releases nerve toxin causing lock-jaw, muscles spasms and breathing difficulty.

Polio

Polio is a virus that can cause permanent paralysis.

Haemophilus Influenza type B

Hib infection is a lethal bacteria that can cause serious lung, brain and blood infections.

#4 MMR Vaccine

2 doses administered at 12- months and 15-18 months. MMR notoriously may cause high fever from day 4 to 8 after vaccination. So beware.

What is MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that causes fever, rash and cough. Lethal complications may include ear, lung and brain. Mumps virus causes infection of salivary glands, fever and headache. It can lead to meningitis, deafness and even sterility. Rubella virus causes fever, rash and joint pains.

#5 Pneumococcal Vaccine

This vaccine consists of 3 doses administered at 3-, 5- and 12-months. It may cause fever within 48 hours of injection. Pneumococcal infection is a common cause of ear and chest infection in children. It can, however, cause serious infection such as meningitis and blood infection, leading to permanent brain damage or even death.

Remember that these vaccines are highly recommended in children. To prevent these dreadful infections, discuss with your PD on these important injections.

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