In your baby’s first year of life, they’ll discover the world—through their eyes, their hands, and their little immune system. Every sound, smile, and step is a milestone. And alongside these moments, vaccinations quietly protect them from dangerous diseases they can’t fight off on their own.
At AfyaMoja, we know how overwhelming it can feel to keep up with the many things a baby needs. That’s why we’re here to make immunization easy to understand, easier to remember, and part of your everyday care routine.
Why Vaccines Are So Important
Vaccines help your baby’s body build protection against serious diseases like Polio, Tuberculosis, Measles, Diphtheria, Hepatitis B, Whooping cough, Tetanus, and Pneumonia.
These diseases may seem far away—but they’re still a threat, especially for children under five. The good news is: vaccines work. Kenya’s national immunization program has protected millions of children. However, missed or delayed vaccines can leave your child vulnerable.
When to Vaccinate Your Baby
Here’s a quick overview of the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunization (KEPI) schedule:
- At birth: BCG and oral polio (OPV 0)
- 6, 10, and 14 weeks: Pentavalent (DTaP–HepB–Hib), OPV 1–3, PCV (pneumococcal), and rotavirus
- 6 months: Vitamin A supplementation
- 9 months: Measles–Rubella (MR 1), and yellow fever in high-risk regions
- 18 months: MR 2 booster and vitamin A
Tip: The pentavalent vaccine protects against five diseases in one shot—diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, and haemophilus influenzae type B.
Each visit is essential. Even if you're late, it’s never too late to catch up—your health provider will guide you.
Common Questions New Mothers Ask
“Will my baby get a fever after a vaccine?”
Yes, sometimes. Mild fever, swelling at the injection site, or fussiness are normal and usually go away within 1–2 days. You can place a cool cloth on the injection site and keep your baby hydrated.
“What if I missed one of the vaccines?”
Return to the health facility as soon as you can. The nurse will advise you on how to catch up. It’s better to be late than skip a vaccine altogether.
“Can I vaccinate my baby if they have a cold or cough?”
In most cases, yes. Mild illnesses aren’t a reason to delay vaccination, but always ask your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Your Baby Deserves a Healthy Start
Vaccines are more than just a needle—they’re a promise. A promise that your baby is being given every chance to grow up healthy, strong, and protected.
