Understanding Childhood Vaccinations
A parent's guide to the South African vaccination schedule and why each vaccine matters.
Protecting Your Child Through Vaccination
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious diseases. Here's what every parent should know.
How Vaccines Work
Vaccines teach the immune system to recognise and fight specific germs by introducing a weakened or inactive form of the pathogen. This creates immunity without causing the disease.
The SA EPI Vaccination Schedule (2024)
South Africa's Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) provides free vaccines at all public clinics.
| Age | Vaccines | |-----|----------| | Birth | BCG (tuberculosis), OPV (oral polio) | | 6 weeks | OPV, DTaP-IPV-Hib-HBV (6-in-1), Pneumococcal (PCV), Rotavirus | | 10 weeks | DTaP-IPV-Hib-HBV (6-in-1) | | 14 weeks | DTaP-IPV-Hib-HBV (6-in-1), Pneumococcal (PCV), Rotavirus | | 9 months | Measles (1st dose), Pneumococcal (PCV) | | 18 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib (booster), Measles (2nd dose) | | 6 years | Td booster (tetanus & diphtheria) | | 9–14 years | HPV vaccine (boys & girls, 2 doses 6 months apart) | | 12 years | Td booster |
Note: The 6-in-1 vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and hepatitis B.
Common Concerns Addressed
"Are vaccines safe?" Yes. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and continuous monitoring. Side effects are usually mild (soreness at injection site, low fever).
"Can vaccines overload the immune system?" No. Children encounter thousands of germs daily. Vaccines use only a tiny fraction of the immune system's capacity.
"What about children with allergies?" Most children with allergies can be safely vaccinated. Discuss specific concerns with your healthcare provider.
"What's new in 2024?" HPV vaccine is now recommended for both boys and girls aged 9–14 to protect against HPV-related cancers.
After Vaccination Care
- Mild fever and fussiness are normal for 1–2 days
- Offer extra fluids and comfort
- A cool cloth can help with injection site soreness
- Paracetamol can be given if needed (ask your pharmacist about correct dosing)
Questions about vaccines? Our pharmacists can explain the schedule and address any concerns you have. The Amayeza vaccine helpline is also available: 086 016 0160.
