COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Testing (ART) at $37.45 nett (Jan 2022)

Image Source: nst.com.my

COVID-19 tests have evolved over the past few months as requirements have evolved as well, and the coronavirus remains steadfastly persistent in our community.

Antigen Rapid Testing (ART) has been developed that allows for quicker detection of the coronavirus, as the results take less time to be churned out compared to the usual Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. ART detects protein present on the surface of the virus, whereas PCR test detects genetic material itself.

We use the STANDARD Q COVID-19 Ag Test, which is jointly developed by SPD Scientific, one of Singapore’s leading Biomedical Laboratories, and SD Biosensor, to provide fast and reliable antigen rapid testing.

It takes about 15 minutes to obtain results from an ART, unlike around 24 hours for a PCR test, making it more convenient to be used in pre-event settings, as well as point-of-care settings. The sample is obtained via an anterior nasal swab which is more comfortable than the traditional nasopharyngeal swab done in a PCR test. The sample will then be processed within the clinic on the spot. Once the results are out, the patient will be informed and a formal certificate of the result will be provided.

If the ART result is inconclusive, a repeat ART can be conducted. Alternatively, a PCR test can be opted for and we can conduct it on the spot, however, the results will only take around 24 hours to return.

If the ART result is positive, a PCR test will be mandatory to be performed within 72 hours. You will have to self-isolate yourself before and after the PCR test is done, until your result is out. We can do the PCR test for you immediately in the clinic, should your ART test result be positive.

The ART results for pre-event testing are valid only for 24 hours. Please ensure that you arrive for your testing within 24 hours of the entire duration of your event/activity. For example if your event is from 9am to 4pm on Thursday, you should come for your ART no earlier than 4pm on Wednesday, the day before.

ART results will not be eligible to be used for pre-departure screening. The usual PCR test is still required for pre-departure screening.

Our clinic is licensed to provide COVID-19 ART. Prices have been revised from 1 Jan 2022 to $37.45 for adults. A $10 surcharge applies for children.

How to make an appointment with Intemedical?

Appointment Portal: Kovan Clinic / Potong Pasir Clinic

(click and book with instant confirmation!)

WhatsApp: 8879 9404

(available during clinic opening hours, 8am to 12am)

Mobile: 8879 9404

(messaging preferred)

Landline: +65 3165 9251

(please be aware that the phone might be engaged due to high call volume)

Flu Vaccination for Seasonal Influenza

Image source: European Pharmaceutical Review

Influenza (commonly known as flu) is a communicable disease which can potentially lead to severe respiratory complications, hospitalisations and sometimes even death.

There are multiple brands of influenza/flu vaccinations, Depending on the season, we at Intemedical Clinic always carry the most updated QUADRIVALENT (4-STRAINS) influenza vaccination that is MOH approved.

As the seasonal influenza strains change every half yearly or yearly, we recommend annual flu jab to keep yourself protected against the most common (seasonal) influenza strains for both adults and children.

The difference between the northern and the southern flu vaccines are the strains of the influenza virus that are included in the vaccine. However, most of the time, the northern and southern strains are similar, hence there's only a need to take one of the two influenza vaccines, once every year instead of 6-monthly, unless otherwise advised.

It takes about 2 weeks for the vaccination antibodies to develop and provide protection. Get vaccinated early before the flu virus begin spreading in the community.

Those at risk of serious flu complications should get vaccinated. Who is recommended to get the flu shot? Under our National Immunisation Schedule Guidelines, flu vaccination is recommended for the following groups of individuals:

Adult - 18-64 years old: Recommended for adults with specific medical condition such as Asthma, COPD, Diabetes, chronic neurologic, liver, haematologic disorder or immunosuppression. - 65 years and older: 1 dose annually - Pregnant ladies: 1 dose for the pregnancy

Children - Annual vaccination per season for all children age 6 months to 5 years old

All Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents who meet the criteria for influenza vaccination are eligible for subsidies and tap on Medisave to pay the balance.

The influenza vaccine price can range from $0 to $35 in our clinic, depending on the subsidy scheme used.

Do note that Intemedical is also a CHAS clinic and can attend to your acute and chronic medical needs. We are very comfortable with paediatric care of all ages as well so feel free to bring your child in if for assessment of their health needs if required. Our clinic has various health screening packages available so feel free to contact us should you need any help.

Intemedical is open from 8am to 12am daily. Please contact us at:

Appointment Portal: Kovan Clinic / Potong Pasir Clinic

(click and book with instant confirmation!)

WhatsApp: 8879 9404

(available during clinic opening hours, 8am to 12am)

Mobile: 8879 9404

(messaging preferred)

Landline: +65 3165 9251

(please be aware that the phone might be engaged due to high call volume)

Recommended vaccinations for adults above the age of 65

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The National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) recommends vaccination against influenza and pneumococcal disease in adults above the age of 65. Influenza and pneumococcal disease are respiratory illnesses which are highly contagious and can cause serious lung infections which can lead to hospitalisation and fatal consequences. Under the NAIS, Singaporean adults aged 65 years and above are eligible for the following vaccinations:

1) Annual Influenza vaccine,

2) Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13) vaccine

3) Pneumococcal Polysaccharide (PPSV23) vaccine (1 year after PCV13)

These vaccinations are heavily subsidised by the government. Subsidy rates are means-tested, so it varies with the type of CHAS, PG or Merdeka card that one holds. The remaining amount can be paid for using your own or your immediate family member’s Medisave500, thereby requiring close to zero out-of-pocket expenses. We will also be waiving any consultation fees for patients coming in for vaccinations.

How to make an appointment with Intemedical?

Appointment Portal: Kovan Clinic / Potong Pasir Clinic

(click and book with instant confirmation!)

WhatsApp: 8879 9404

(available during clinic opening hours, 8am to 12am)

Mobile: 8879 9404

(messaging preferred)

Landline: +65 3165 9251

(please be aware that the phone might be engaged due to high call volume)