Vaccines Given to Newborns in Ghana (Haemophilus Inflenza b vaccine)

 

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The Haemophilus Vaccine Immunization Schedule

The Haemophilus vaccine is given as part of the pentavalent vaccine. The pentavalent vaccine is given as an injection at 6 weeks, 10 weeks and 14 weeks on the left mid-thigh. The parent can put the child on the lap and hold her gently while the nurse gives the injection.

The common side effects include high temperatures and swelling at the injection site. Pain medications will be prescribed for your baby and you can apply a cold compress to the swelling.

This vaccine is a conjugate vaccine and cannot cause disease when a child is vaccinated.

Haemophilus Influenza Infections

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacteria that causes severe diseases, such as meningitis, pneumonia, and sepsis. The Hib bacteria spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The bacteria can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria and then touching the nose or mouth. The disease is most common in children under the age of 5, but it can affect people of all ages. It used to be one of the commonest causes of infection in children in Ghana a few years back.

Symptoms of Hib Infections

The symptoms of Hib infection can vary depending on the type of disease it causes. In meningitis, symptoms can include fever, headache, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light. In pneumonia, symptoms can include cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. In sepsis, symptoms can include fever, chills, low blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat.

Prevention of Hib Infections

The best way to prevent Hib infection is through vaccination. The Hib vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule and is recommended for all children under the age of 5. The vaccine is also recommended for adults who have not been vaccinated or who need a booster. It is important to get vaccinated to protect yourself and those around you, especially infants who are at the highest risk for severe complications from Hib infection. The Hib vaccine is highly effective and has dramatically reduced the incidence of Hib infections since its introduction in the 1980s. It is considered to be one of the most important vaccines for children and is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health organizations around the world.