Protecting your child: the critical role of immunisations in South Africa
Parents are reminded that now is a good time to make sure their child’s immunisations are up to date.
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As the school year commences, parents across South Africa are reminded of the vital importance of ensuring that their children’s immunisations are up to date. Immunisation is a critical shield against serious illnesses such as whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus—diseases that still pose a threat today. These illnesses are not relics of the past; they continue to circulate and can spread rapidly in schools, crèches, and homes, especially when children have missed doses or the protection from earlier immunisations has diminished.
Why immunisation matters: When infants are born, clinics provide immunisations that equip their immune systems to tackle dangerous diseases. However, that protection isn’t indefinite. As children grow, their immunity can wane, necessitating booster doses at various stages, particularly when they enter school. It is vital that parents adhere to the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) as outlined by the National Department of Health, ensuring that children from as young as six weeks receive the necessary vaccinations at the appropriate times—such as at six years of age.
Early immunisations are particularly essential, as they safeguard young children at their most vulnerable. If vaccination schedules are not adhered to, what could seem like a minor lapse in health could lead to dire consequences.
The serious risks of neglecting immunisation: Some parents may underestimate the severity of these diseases. However, conditions such as diphtheria can create a thick membrane in the throat, hindering breathing and swallowing, while also posing risks to heart and nerve function. Tetanus, which enters through cuts, leads to painful muscle spasms and difficulty breathing, and can even be fatal. Moreover, whooping cough is notorious for causing prolonged coughing fits, placing infants and young children at risk of serious respiratory complications.
A proactive approach: Check your child's Road-to-Health card: To ensure children are fully protected, parents should take out their child's Road-to-Health booklet or clinic card and verify the immunisation entries. Should there be any uncertainty about the dates or details, local clinic nurses are available to assist. In the event that the card is lost, parents can swiftly obtain a replacement by visiting their nearest primary healthcare clinic. This facility will help rebuild the child’s immunisation record.
Access to free healthcare services: Immunisations for children are provided free of charge at government clinics under the EPI. Parents do not need to seek private healthcare services for these essential vaccinations. Some schools also facilitate immunisation days to help catch up students who may have missed previous doses.
Expert insights: Shaakira Abrahams, Medical Manager at Sanofi South Africa, emphasises the importance of keeping immunisations up to date as a preventative health measure.
“Routine immunisations help protect against serious illness. If the card is missing, you can get a replacement at your local clinic. Keeping immunisations up to date helps safeguard your child, their classmates and your community.”
As parents prepare their children for the school year ahead, checking their immunisation statuses is a simple yet effective way to enhance their health and well-being. A brief visit to the clinic can make a significant difference in protecting children from serious ailments, ensuring that they remain healthy and ready to learn throughout the year.