The Ministry of Health addressed concerns regarding vaccine shortages in Kenya, particularly for routine antigens, in a press release on May 23, 2024.
Key vaccines such as the BCG Vaccine, Oral Polio Vaccine, and Measles Rubella Vaccine are experiencing stockouts, with less than two months of supply available nationwide.
Additionally, stock levels for other routine childhood vaccines, such as HPV and Malaria vaccines, are low, with only three to six months of stock on hand.
These shortages pose a significant risk to children and vulnerable populations, leaving them susceptible to vaccine-preventable diseases and potential outbreaks.
The Ministry assured the public of their commitment to safeguarding health, stating that efforts are underway to monitor vaccine consumption at all levels and facilitate redistribution between counties to mitigate the stock-out situation.
They are collaborating with the National Vaccines and Immunization Program (NVIP) to redistribute available routine vaccines across the country and prevent eligible children from missing vital vaccinations during this critical period. Collaborations with UNICEF are also in place to expedite the delivery of vaccines ordered post the last payment.
To address the issue, a budget of Ksh1.25 billion has been allocated for the urgent procurement of routine antigens to replenish dwindling vaccine stocks in health facilities.
Despite logistical challenges due to heavy rains, the Ministry and its partners are expediting the shipment of vaccines, expected to arrive by the first week of June 2024.
The Ministry emphasized the importance of caregivers maintaining close coordination with healthcare workers and bringing their children back to facilities once stock levels have normalized.
“We urge all caregivers to liaise closely with healthcare providers and bring their children back to these facilities once stock levels have normalized,” the statement continued.
