As a new parent, ensuring the health and well-being of your baby is a top priority. One crucial aspect of safeguarding your little one's health is following the recommended vaccination schedule in Rwanda. The national immunization program, known as the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), aims to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases by providing a systematic schedule of vaccinations starting from birth. Here is a comprehensive guide to the baby vaccination schedule in Rwanda:
- At Birth:
- BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin) vaccine: Protects against tuberculosis.
- 6 Weeks:
- Pentavalent vaccine (DTP-HepB-Hib): Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenza type b.
- PVC 13 (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine): Protect against Pneumococcus
- Oral polio vaccine (OPV): Protects against polio.
- Rotavirus vaccine (Rotatec): Protects against rotavirus infection.
- 10 Weeks:
- Pentavalent vaccine (DTP-HepB-Hib).
- PVC 13 (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine): Protect against Pneumococcus
- Oral polio vaccine (OPV).
- Rotavirus vaccine (Rotatec): Protects against rotavirus infection.
- 14 Weeks:
- Pentavalent vaccine (DTP-HepB-Hib).
- PVC 13 (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine): Protect against Pneumococcus
- Oral polio vaccine (OPV).
- 9 Months:
- Measles-Rubella vaccine: Protects against measles and rubella.
- 12 Months:
- Yellow fever vaccine: Protects against yellow fever.
- 15-18 Months:
- Measles-Rubella vaccine.
- 18 Months:
- Pentavalent booster dose.
- PVC 13 (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine): Protect against Pneumococcus
- Oral polio vaccine booster dose.
It is crucial for parents and caregivers to adhere to this vaccination schedule to ensure that their babies receive protection against serious diseases. The government of Rwanda provides vaccination services free of charge at health facilities to promote immunization and public health.
By following this comprehensive guide to the baby vaccination schedule in Rwanda, you can play a vital role in safeguarding your child's health and well-being. Stay informed, stay proactive, and ensure that your baby receives all the recommended vaccines at the scheduled times. Remember, a healthy baby is a happy baby!
For the most up-to-date information and specific details on the vaccination schedule in Rwanda, consult with healthcare providers or visit the Ministry of Health's official website. Your proactive approach to vaccination will contribute to a healthier future for your little one.
Feel free to share this guide with other mothers and caregivers to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination for children in Rwanda. Together, we can protect our precious little ones and build a healthier community for all.
A picture of a vaccination card