Why Vaccination is Important
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect children from life-threatening diseases. In Kenya, the government provides a free immunization program through the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunization (KEPI) to ensure all children receive essential vaccines. These vaccinations help protect against diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, measles, and pneumonia, among others.
Recommended Vaccination Schedule for Newborns
The following is the recommended vaccination schedule for newborns and young children in Kenya:
At Birth
- BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) – Protects against tuberculosis (TB)
- Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV 0) – First dose of polio vaccine
At 6 Weeks (1.5 Months)
- Pentavalent Vaccine (DPT-HepB-Hib 1) – Protects against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
- Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV 1) – Second dose of polio vaccine
- Rotavirus Vaccine 1 – Protects against rotavirus diarrhea
- Pneumococcal Vaccine (PCV 10-1) – Protects against pneumonia and other pneumococcal diseases
At 10 Weeks (2.5 Months)
- Pentavalent Vaccine (DPT-HepB-Hib 2) – Second dose
- Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV 2) – Third dose
- Rotavirus Vaccine 2 – Second dose
- Pneumococcal Vaccine (PCV 10-2) – Second dose
At 14 Weeks (3.5 Months)
- Pentavalent Vaccine (DPT-HepB-Hib 3) – Third dose
- Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV 3) – Fourth dose
- Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) – Strengthens polio protection
- Pneumococcal Vaccine (PCV 10-3) – Third dose
At 6 Months
- Vitamin A Supplementation – Boosts immunity and prevents childhood blindness
At 9 Months
- Measles-Rubella Vaccine 1 – Protects against measles and rubella
- Yellow Fever Vaccine (for regions at risk)
At 12 Months (1 Year)
- Measles-Rubella Vaccine 2 – Booster dose for long-term immunity
At 18 Months (1.5 Years)
- DPT Booster Vaccine – Strengthens protection against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus
- Vitamin A Supplementation – Second dose
Additional Vaccines Available
Apart from KEPI-recommended vaccines, parents may also consider additional vaccines available at private hospitals, including:
- Meningococcal Vaccine – Protects against meningitis
- Chickenpox Vaccine – Protects against varicella (chickenpox)
- Hepatitis A Vaccine – Protects against hepatitis A
- Typhoid Vaccine – Prevents typhoid fever
Where to Get Vaccinations
Vaccinations are available at all government hospitals, health centers, and registered private clinics across Kenya. Parents should ensure their child’s vaccination card is up to date and follow the KEPI schedule strictly.
Conclusion
Vaccinations are essential in safeguarding your child’s health and preventing the spread of deadly diseases. By ensuring your baby receives all the recommended vaccines on time, you are giving them the best start in life. If you have any concerns or questions about vaccines, consult a healthcare professional at your nearest health facility.