Uasin Gishu County has attained 82% coverage for fully immunized children

Uasin Gishu county has achieved 82 per cent coverage for fully immunised children, offering protection against preventable diseases such as polio, measles, and rubella.

County health services director Dr Evans Kiprotich said the milestone reflects the county’s commitment to child health through routine vaccines that include oral polio drops, pentavalent doses, measles-rubella shots at nine and 18 months, vitamin A supplementation, and deworming.

Kenya is currently grappling with a worrying decline in national childhood immunisation rates, but Uasin Gishu has convened stakeholders to keep momentum.

The forum brought together representatives from the Ministry of Health, religious institutions, civil society, private sector, and the media.

“Immunising a child is not just the job of the health department—it’s a shared responsibility,” said Kiprotich, warning that each missed vaccination puts children at risk.

He added that in an era of growing misinformation, building trust with communities remains crucial. “This diverse group reflects the broad network involved in a child’s well being. From a religious leader promoting vaccine acceptance to media shaping perception, everyone has a role to play,” he said.

Joshua Masai, the county EPI coordinator, outlined plans to sustain progress through grassroots outreach, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local organisations. “Our goal is simple: no child should be left behind,” he said.

The renewed push comes amid vaccine hesitancy, logistical hurdles, and service delivery gaps in hard-to-reach areas. “At the end of the day, it’s not about percentages—it’s about safeguarding our children’s future. Immunisation is life-saving,” Kiprotich said.