Expanded Programme on Immunization in Ghana

Ghana Immunization Schedule

Immunization of Children

In Ghana, all children have a comprehensive vaccination programme to protect them from serious diseases. As a parent, it's important to keep track of your child's immunization schedule and ensure they receive all the necessary vaccines. Let's take a closer look at the immunization schedule and what to expect before vaccinations.

At Birth:

Newborn babies in Ghana receive two vaccines at birth or within the first few days of life: the BCG tuberculosis vaccine and the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV). If the mother has a Hepatitis B virus infection, the baby will receive a Hepatitis B vaccine within 72 hours of birth. The BCG vaccine, however, is only given once.

Six (6) Weeks:

At six weeks of age, your baby will receive multiple vaccines, including the Oral Polio Vaccine, Rotavirus Vaccine, Diptheria Vaccine, Pertussis Vaccine, Tetanus vaccine, Hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenza vaccine, and Pneumococcal vaccine. You don't need to go all the way back to the hospital for this visit - there are weekly child welfare clinics in every neighbourhood within walking distance from your home. The same public health nurse team that works at the hospital also visits these clinics, so you'll receive the same high-quality care closer to home.

Ten (10) Weeks:

At ten weeks of age, your baby will receive the same vaccines that were given at six weeks of age. These vaccines are also available at your neighbourhood child welfare centre and will be administered by public health nurses.

Fourteen (14) Weeks:

At fourteen weeks of age, the same vaccinations will be repeated to ensure that your baby receives good immunity. The Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) will also be given at this visit.

Nine (9) Months:

After a break from vaccinations, the next set of vaccines will be given at nine months of age. These vaccines - the Measles vaccine, Rubella vaccine, and Yellow Fever vaccine - are also available at the neighbourhood child welfare centre and will be administered by public health nurses.

Eighteen (18) Months:

The last set of vaccinations for your baby will be given at eighteen months of age. These vaccines - the Measles vaccine, Rubella vaccine, and Meningitis A vaccine - are also available at your neighbourhood child welfare centre and will be administered by public health nurses.

What to Expect Before Vaccinations:

As a parent, it's natural to be anxious about your child's vaccinations. Here are some common questions you may have:

• Will it be painful?
• Will my child cry?
• Will there be a high temperature?
• Will the vaccine hurt my baby?
• Why give so many vaccines at the same time?
• Will my baby be fully protected?

It's important to remember that vaccines are safe and effective. While your child may experience some discomfort or side effects, these are generally mild and short-lived. By following the immunization schedule and ensuring that your child receives all the necessary vaccines, you're helping to protect them from life-changing diseases and ensure their health and well-being.