Immunisation plays a crucial role in protecting your child from preventable diseases and ensuring community health. Dr. Katrina Heng answers frequently asked questions about child immunisation in Singapore, including its risks, schedules, and how to manage side effects. See the thread for full conversations.
Q: What happens if I miss my baby’s vaccine on time? Can I delay the next one?
Dr. Katrina Heng: If your baby’s vaccination is missed due to illness or other reasons, reschedule it at the earliest opportunity—ideally 2–3 days after recovery. Your doctor may create a catch-up schedule to keep your child on track. For most vaccines, delays won’t require adjusting the timing of subsequent doses.
Q: What are the risk factors if we fail to give immunisations on time?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Delayed immunisations increase the risk of catching preventable diseases, some of which have long-term medical consequences. The immunisation schedule is carefully planned to protect your child and the community. While vaccines aren’t always 100% effective, they significantly reduce the risk of severe illnesses.
Q: What are the critical immunisations if we can’t get all of them?
Dr. Katrina Heng: This depends on your child’s exposure risks. For example, if you plan to travel to a country with endemic diseases like measles, it’s essential to get the measles vaccine earlier than scheduled. In Singapore, following the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) is highly recommended for optimal protection.
Q: Is watery stool normal after the rotavirus vaccine?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Yes, it is common for infants to experience mild side effects like loose stools, flatulence, or fussiness after the rotavirus vaccine. These symptoms are temporary. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as handwashing before preparing feeds and after diaper changes, can help normalize your baby’s stooling patterns.
Q: My baby gets a fever after each vaccine. Is this a red flag? Can it be avoided?
Dr. Katrina Heng: A fever above 38°C after vaccination is usually a mild side effect and not a red flag. To help your child feel comfortable, dress them in loose-fitting clothing and keep the room cool. If the fever persists or worsens, seek medical attention.
Q: My baby becomes very sleepy after immunisation. Should I wake her up for milk?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Yes, it’s advisable to wake your baby for milk feeds, especially if they’re exclusively breastfed. Aim to feed them every 2–3 hours to ensure they stay nourished and hydrated.
Q: Can my baby get vaccinated with a cold or cough? Should I delay it?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Mild illnesses, like colds or coughs without fever, usually don’t require delaying vaccination. However, for high fevers or other concerns, consult your nurse or doctor to decide the best course of action.
Q: My baby’s 2-month immunisation is coming up, but we need to fly immediately after. Is it safe?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Common side effects of the 2-month immunisations (DTaP dose 1 + Hep B dose 2) include redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site. These are typically mild and temporary. Consult your doctor to assess your baby’s readiness for travel after vaccination. When in doubt, consider scheduling the flight a day or two later to monitor for any adverse reactions.
Why Is Immunisation Important in Singapore?
Immunisation protects children from preventable diseases, some of which can have serious health consequences. In Singapore, the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) ensures that children receive vaccines at appropriate intervals for maximum efficacy.
Tips for Managing Vaccination Side Effects
- Fevers: Use loose clothing and keep the room cool.
- Injection Site Reactions: Apply a cool compress to reduce redness or swelling.
- Hydration: Encourage breastfeeding or formula feeding to keep your child hydrated.
- Comfort: Provide soothing actions, such as cuddling or nursing, to ease your child’s discomfort.
About Dr. Katrina Heng
Dr. Katrina Heng is a trusted paediatrician dedicated to helping families navigate their children’s health with compassion and expertise. With her evidence-based approach, she aims to empower parents with the tools and knowledge they need to raise happy, healthy children.
Final Thoughts
Sticking to the immunisation schedule is key to protecting your child and the wider community from preventable diseases. For concerns about missed vaccinations, side effects, or specific schedules, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
