The Ministry of Health has issued an update regarding the current status of vaccine stocks across the country, reaffirming its commitment to the health and well-being of all Kenyans.
The principal secretary State Department for Medical Service Harry Kimtai acknowledged reports of vaccine shortages affecting routine antigens across health facilities nationwide.
“We are aware of reports of vaccine shortages of routine antigens across health facilities in the country,” he said.
“Currently, there are stockouts of key vaccines, with less than two months of stock available nationally for traditional vaccines such as the BCG Vaccine, Oral Polio Vaccine, and Measles Rubella Vaccine,” read part of the statement.
The PS acknowledged that the stockouts have put children and vulnerable populations at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases and potential outbreaks.
He stated the measures the Ministry of Health is taking to alleviate the current situation.
“We are tracking vaccine consumption at all levels nationally and facilitating redistribution between counties to alleviate the stock-out situation. As an urgent stop-gap measure, the National Vaccines and Immunization Program (NVIP) is redistributing current stocks of available routine vaccines across the country to ensure eligible children do not miss vaccinations during this critical period,” he said.
Kimtai further added that they are closely engaging with UNICEF to expedite the delivery of vaccines ordered after the last payment.
Additionally, he noted that Sh1.25 billion has been set aside to urgently procure routine antigens and replenish the lifesaving vaccines in health facilities.
The PS therefore stated that the well-being of all Kenyans remains steadfast, and they are working diligently to address any challenges.
"Our goal is to ensure that all Kenyans have access to life-saving vaccines and to maintain high immunization coverage across the country,” he said.
