The vaccination schedule in Nigeria is organized and administered by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). The vaccination schedule for children in Nigeria typically includes the following vaccines, but please note that the schedule can change, and it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information specific to your region:
At Birth:
- BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin): Protection against tuberculosis.
6 Weeks:
- OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine): To protect against polio.
- Penta 1: Combines vaccines for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).
10 Weeks:
- OPV: Second dose of the oral polio vaccine.
- Penta 2: Second dose of the combination vaccine.
14 Weeks:
- OPV: Third dose of the oral polio vaccine.
- Penta 3: Third dose of the combination vaccine.
9 Months:
- Measles: To protect against measles.
15 Months:
- Measles 2: Second dose of the measles vaccine.
4 Years:
- OPV: Fourth dose of the oral polio vaccine.
- DTP: To boost immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
9 Years:
- Yellow Fever: Protection against yellow fever, a mosquito-borne disease.
Other Vaccines:
- Hepatitis B: Given within 24 hours of birth.
- Hepatitis B: The second dose is usually given at 6 weeks.
- Hepatitis B: The third dose is typically given at 14 weeks.
The NPHCDA also conducts mass vaccination campaigns, such as the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs), to further ensure that children receive their required vaccines.
The specific schedule and vaccines may vary by region and local health policies, so it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider or a local health authority to ensure that your child receives the appropriate vaccines at the recommended times. Regular vaccination is essential to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases in Nigeria.