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New 2026–2027 Northern Hemisphere Flu Vaccine: What Has Changed?

The latest Northern Hemisphere flu vaccine includes two updated strains compared with the 2026 Southern Hemisphere vaccine. Here is what the update means and why staying up to date with your flu vaccination matters.

What is different about the new vaccine?

Each flu season, the vaccine is updated based on the WHO recommendations for the 2026–2027 Northern Hemisphere flu vaccine to protect against the latest strains of the influenza virus, so even if you were vaccinated in the previous season, it’s important to stay protected with this season’s shot.

Influenza viruses change over time. The World Health Organization reviews circulating viruses and recommends updates to help vaccines better match the strains expected in the coming season.

These updates help keep vaccination relevant as influenza viruses evolve. They do not mean that the vaccine protects against two additional types of flu.

Why get vaccinated against flu?

Flu can cause fever, cough, muscle aches and significant tiredness. In some people, it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia. Influenza circulates throughout the year in Singapore, so protection matters even when you are not travelling.

Flu vaccination helps to:

• Lower your risk of falling ill with influenza.
• Reduce the risk of severe illness, particularly for people who are more vulnerable to complications.
• Help protect people around you by reducing your risk of influenza infection.

Protection varies between individuals and seasons, and vaccination cannot prevent every case of flu. However, it remains an important way to reduce the risks associated with influenza.

Who should pay particular attention?

Flu vaccination is especially important for:

• Adults aged 65 years and above.
• Children aged six months to under five years.
• Pregnant women.
• People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or lung disease.
• People with weakened immune systems.

Our doctors can advise on suitability based on your age, health conditions and vaccination history. You can also read HealthHub’s guide to the influenza vaccine for more information.

Flu vaccination at HMI OneCare

Contact your preferred HMI OneCare clinic to check the availability of the 2026–2027 Northern Hemisphere flu vaccine and arrange your visit.

Walk-ins are welcome during clinic opening hours, subject to vaccine availability and clinical suitability. Bring your identification and let our team know when you last received a flu vaccine.

Appointment Tips:

• Booking ahead guarantees your vaccine dose and helps us prepare for your visit.
• Each booking is for 1 person. If you would like to book appointments for your family members, please book multiple appointments.
• If you’re unwell on the day of your appointment, contact the clinic to reschedule.