Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines have played a critical role in reducing severe illness, preventing hospitalisation, and saving lives. In Singapore, the government has ensured access to several COVID vaccination brands to meet different health needs and preferences. Understanding the differences between these vaccines can help individuals make informed decisions based on their age, health status, and personal concerns.

National Vaccination Programme Options

Under the National Vaccination Programme, Singapore primarily offers mRNA-based vaccines, including Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty and Moderna/Spikevax. These vaccines use messenger RNA to instruct the body to create a harmless spike protein, prompting an immune response that protects against the virus.

Both Comirnaty and Spikevax are highly effective, especially in preventing severe disease and hospitalisation. They are recommended for the general adult population, and the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is also approved for use in children as young as six months old. For those seeking booster shots, both brands are available, and updated formulations have been rolled out to better match circulating variants.

Non-mRNA Alternatives

Singapore has also made non-mRNA vaccines available for individuals who may have allergies, specific medical concerns, or personal preferences. One such option is the Novavax/Nuvaxovid vaccine. This vaccine uses a more traditional protein subunit platform, where purified pieces of the virus spike protein are combined with an adjuvant to stimulate immunity.

Nuvaxovid is considered a viable alternative for those who are unable or unwilling to take mRNA vaccines. While its initial rollout was more limited, it provides similar levels of protection against severe COVID-19 outcomes, especially when used as part of a primary series or booster in conjunction with other vaccine types.

Booster Recommendations and Mix-and-Match Flexibility

Singapore’s Ministry of Health recommends that eligible individuals receive updated booster shots to maintain strong protection against evolving COVID-19 variants. The government supports a flexible approach, allowing individuals to mix different vaccine types as part of their booster regime.

For example, someone who initially received Pfizer-BioNTech for their primary doses may opt for Moderna or Novavax as a booster, and vice versa. This mix-and-match strategy has been shown to provide robust immunity and has helped maintain high booster uptake in Singapore’s population.

Effectiveness Against Variants

Effectiveness against emerging variants is an important consideration when comparing COVID vaccination options. mRNA vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna have been adapted to target specific variants, including Omicron subvariants, which are currently the most prevalent. These updated vaccines have demonstrated stronger neutralising activity against the variants circulating in 2024 and 2025.

Meanwhile, Novavax continues to show effectiveness, particularly when used as a booster in individuals who have previously received mRNA doses. Studies suggest that the immune response remains durable, although mRNA vaccines still tend to generate higher levels of neutralising antibodies overall.

Side Effects and Tolerance

Each vaccine brand comes with its own potential side effects, though most are mild and short-lived. Common reactions include soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and mild fever—symptoms that indicate your immune system is responding to the vaccine.

mRNA vaccines may carry a slightly higher risk of myocarditis, particularly in younger males, though the cases are rare and typically mild. For those with concerns, non-mRNA options like Novavax may be considered under medical guidance.

Singapore’s health authorities closely monitor adverse events and continue to ensure all vaccines used are safe and effective through rigorous reviews and international data analysis.

Special Considerations for Different Age Groups

Vaccination guidelines differ based on age and health conditions. Children and adolescents typically receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine due to its established safety profile in younger populations. Adults over 60 and those with weakened immune systems are encouraged to get their boosters promptly, as they are at higher risk of complications from COVID-19.

Pregnant women, individuals with chronic diseases, and those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best vaccine type and schedule for their needs.

Conclusion

Singapore’s diversified vaccine portfolio allows residents to choose from several effective COVID vaccination brands, each offering strong protection against severe disease. Whether you opt for mRNA-based vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna, or traditional platforms like Novavax, what matters most is timely vaccination and staying updated with booster recommendations. By understanding the differences in formulation, effectiveness, and suitability, you can take an active role in safeguarding your health and that of your community.