Novavax Covid-19 vaccine available at some GP clinics in Singapore from Jan 2 to May 31

An additional Covid-19 vaccine dose can increase protection against severe disease, CDA said.SINGAPORE – Those eligible for the Novavax Covid-19 vaccine can receive the jab at selected general practitioner (GP) clinics from Jan 2 to May 31 in 2026 under the National Vaccination Programme.This follows the Health Sciences Authority’s approval for the use of the JN.1 Novavax Covid-19 vaccine in Singapore for people aged 12 and above, said the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) on Dec 30.CDA said the JN.1 Novavax vaccine is an alternative to the LP.8.1 mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty and Moderna/Spikevax) rolled out in October.Both vaccine strains are expected to provide additional protection against severe disease, the agency added.The protein-based Novavax vaccine is recommended for people who are unable to receive mRNA vaccines, except those diagnosed with myocarditis or pericarditis after a previous dose of an mRNA vaccine.Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. Pericarditis is the swelling and irritation of the thin tissue surrounding the heart.An additional Covid-19 vaccine dose in 2025/2026 can increase protection against severe disease, CDA said.People who have not received an additional dose of Covid-19 vaccination in the past 12 months and wish to get the JN.1 Novavax vaccine for 2025/2026 may do so, as immunity to the virus may decrease over time.Those who received vaccines targeting the JN.1 Covid-19 variant in 2024/2025 (Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty, Moderna/Spikevax or Novavax/Nuvaxovid) are also eligible for the Novavax shot.Those who wish to take the jab as an additional Covid-19 vaccine dose should do so around one year after their last one.This batch of JN.1 Novavax vaccine will not be available under the National Vaccination Programme after it expires on May 31, 2026. Hence, those who wish to receive the vaccine must do so by that date.The LP.8.1 mRNA vaccines, however, will continue to be offered.“Covid-19 waves will continue to occur from time to time and can cause severe disease among those who are older or medically vulnerable,” CDA said.“We encourage everyone, especially those aged 60 and above, medically vulnerable individuals or residents of aged care facilities, to remain updated with their vaccination based on the prevailing recommendations, much like vaccination against influenza.”Those who want a Novavax jab can book an appointment at a participating GP clinic at https://vaccine.gov.sg/covid from Jan 2.Those under the Healthier SG programme are encouraged to visit their enrolled clinic for their jab if it offers Covid-19 vaccination.Covid-19 vaccination continues to be free for all eligible individuals under the National Vaccination Programme. For details on the nearest vaccination sites and the vaccine types offered, visit https://gowhere.gov.sg/vaccineSource: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproductionDiscover how to enjoy other premium articles here