Kenya launches jab campaign against typhoid, measles-rubella

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale

 Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Wednesday launched a national immunization campaign targeting Typhoid and Measles-Rubella (MR).

The campaign will run from July 5 to 14, 2025.

Children aged 9 to 59 months will receive the Measles-Rubella vaccine, while those aged 9 months to 14 years will be given the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV).

“Our goal is clear—95 per cent MR coverage and 80 per cent TCV coverage. No child should suffer or die from preventable diseases,” Duale said.

He noted that Kenya is seeing a rise in antimicrobial-resistant typhoid, with children under 15 years most affected.

Those under five years are at the highest risk of death.

Duale said climate change and urbanisation are worsening the spread of drug-resistant typhoid, making vaccination a key tool in fighting the disease.

“This rollout is a strong sign of the government’s commitment to ensure no child dies from a vaccine-preventable illness. We will not stop until every child in every village and town is vaccinated,” he said.

Measles outbreaks have already been reported in 18 counties.

Between January 2024 and February 2025, health officials recorded 2,949 cases and 18 deaths.

Duale warned that low uptake of the second dose of the MR vaccine at 18 months has left many children at risk.

He urged parents, guardians, and communities to ensure all eligible children are vaccinated.

He also called on county health teams, religious leaders, and partners to support and mobilize for the campaign.

After the campaign, TCV will be added to Kenya’s routine immunization schedule for children at 9 months