Singapore's Ministry of Manpower Requires Measles Immunity Proof for Maids

SINGAPORE — Starting September 1, 2025, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will implement new regulations requiring employers with children under the age of seven to declare the measles immunization status of their foreign domestic workers (FDWs) when applying for or renewing work permits. This initiative comes in response to rising concerns about measles outbreaks, particularly following an increase in recorded cases in the United States.

According to a statement released by MOM on June 19, 2025, the ministry will conduct random sample checks on employers to ensure compliance with the new regulation. Employers who fail to provide documentation proving that their maids are vaccinated against measles or immune to the disease risk having their work pass privileges suspended. The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) elaborated that employers must confirm the vaccination status of their maids, including whether they have received the required two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or have immunity verified through a serological test.

"The measures aim to protect young children who are at higher risk for serious health complications from measles infections, especially in households where children are not fully vaccinated," stated Dr. Linda Tan, a public health expert at the National University of Singapore (NUS). She emphasized that keeping children safe from infectious diseases is crucial, particularly in light of the recent uptick in measles cases globally.

As of June 7, 2025, Singapore reported 11 measles cases this year, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH). The new requirements are designed to minimize health risks to unvaccinated children, who may face severe complications from measles, including pneumonia and encephalitis.

Employers must declare if their maid has received the MMR vaccination or if she is immune. If a maid lacks proof of vaccination, she may undergo a serological test to confirm her immunity at a general practitioner (GP) clinic, with costs ranging from S$60 to S$100. Alternatively, the maid can receive the MMR vaccine again, which is generally considered safe, although it should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

The MOM and CDA have clarified that while mild side effects from the MMR vaccine, such as soreness at the injection site or mild fever, are common, employers are responsible for covering outpatient treatment costs. In cases where serious reactions occur requiring hospitalization, medical insurance will cover the costs for the maid.

The government's proactive approach builds upon existing regulations mandating immunity for staff in preschools and healthcare institutions. However, MOM indicates that there are currently no plans to extend these requirements to other sectors.

The recent policy shift reflects a broader awareness of public health issues and the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks. Public health experts have noted that vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, thereby safeguarding vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, as Singapore prepares to enforce these new regulations, employers must ensure compliance and prioritize the health and safety of both their domestic workers and the children in their care. The upcoming measures serve as a reminder of the importance of vaccinations in public health, particularly in an increasingly interconnected world. The implications of these policies could set a precedent for future health regulations aimed at protecting vulnerable populations from preventable diseases.