Vaccines are among the greatest public health achievements preventing illnesses that once caused widespread suffering and death. From infancy through adolescence, vaccinations protect children from serious diseases like measles, polio, whooping cough, and many more. In Africa, where access to prompt medical care can be limited, vaccines offer a powerful defense that’s both preventive and cost-effective.
Why are childhood vaccines important?
Vaccines train the immune system to recognize and fight infections without causing the disease itself. This not only safeguards individual children but also builds “herd immunity,” reducing disease spread and protecting those who can’t be vaccinated due to medical reasons.
Vaccines by age
At birth
Newborns typically receive a BCG vaccine for tuberculosis and Hepatitis B, with the first dose administered shortly after birth.
6–8 weeks
Infants begin their primary series, usually including vaccines for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal disease, rotavirus, and a second dose of Hepatitis B.
10–14 weeks
Continued primary immunization includes second doses of many of the same vaccines for enhanced protection.
6–9 months
In many African countries, an additional dose of Hepatitis B may be given to strengthen immunity established early in life.
9–18 months
This period includes catch-up or booster doses such as measles, rubella/MR, pneumococcal, meningococcal, and sometimes yellow fever, as disease risk and national guidelines dictate.
15–18 months
For long-term protection, children receive a booster dose of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP).
4–7 years
Before entering school, children get boosters for polio (OPV) and DTP to ensure ongoing immunity.
10–15 years
Preteen and teen schedules may include HPV (for cervical cancer protection in girls and increasingly boys), a Tdap booster, and sometimes a meningococcal A, C, W, Y vaccine depending on national policy.
What if my child misses a dose?
Missed doses don’t erase earlier protection. Discuss with your healthcare provider to catch up using a safe, age-appropriate schedule.
Are childhood vaccines safe?
Vaccines are extensively studied and monitored. Serious side effects are exceptionally rare. Minor reactions like fever or soreness at the injection site are common but temporary.
What if my child is sick on vaccination day?
Minor illnesses like a low-grade fever or mild cold shouldn't delay vaccinations. However, if your child has a high fever or a serious illness, consult their pediatrician first.
What precautions are there?
Always inform your provider if your child has allergies, weakened immune systems, or has had a severe vaccine reaction in the past. They’ll take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Are more vaccines better?
More vaccines don't mean more harm. Spacing is based on immune system capacity, and when vaccines are combined or scheduled appropriately, they work safely and effectively even for premature infants without overloading the immune system.
FAQs
Why do babies need so many immunization so early in life? Young babies are particularly vulnerable to serious infections, and their immune systems are learning and developing rapidly. Vaccinating them early provides immunity before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases, ensuring they develop lasting protection during this critical developmental stage.
What should I do if my child misses a immunization dose? Do not panic! It’s crucial to contact your child’s healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can advise on a catch-up schedule to ensure your child remains protected. Most missed doses can simply be given at the next available opportunity.
Are immunizations safe? Yes! Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and continuous monitoring for safety and effectiveness. Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the minimal risks. Immunizations are one of the safest ways to protect children from dangerous diseases.
Can immunization cause the diseases they are supposed to prevent? No, immunizations do not cause the diseases they protect against. Most immunizations contain only weakened or inactivated forms of viruses or bacteria, or small parts of them, which are enough to train the immune system to recognize and fight off the real infection without causing illness.
Published 5th August 2025
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Recommended Immunizations for Birth Through 6 Years Old, United States, 2025 Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-schedules/child-easyread.html
Cleveland Clinic Childhood Immunization Schedule Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11288-childhood-immunization-schedule
NHS NHS vaccinations and when to have them Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them/
HealthyChildren.org Your Baby's First Vaccines Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Your-Babys-First-Vaccines.aspx