MPs task Health Committee with one-week probe into polio and BCG vaccine shortage
The investigation comes amid rising concern from both health professionals and legislators over the unavailability of the two critical vaccines, which protect infants against polio and tuberculosis.
The National Assembly has launched an urgent investigation to evaluate the government’s handling of polio and BCG vaccine supplies following widespread complaints of stockouts in health facilities across the country.
The Parliamentary Committee on Health has been given one week to conduct a thorough inquiry into the distribution process and report back with findings on the efficiency, reach, and timeliness of vaccine delivery nationwide.
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The investigation comes amid rising concern from both health professionals and legislators over the unavailability of the two critical vaccines, which protect infants against polio and tuberculosis.
The probe is being led by the Health Committee, chaired by Seme MP James Nyikal.
Immediate action
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who issued the directive, said the shortage had raised alarm and warranted immediate action.
“I did call the PS for Health and confirmed there was a shortage, but he said the vaccines had arrived at JKIA and would be distributed across all hospitals,” Wetang’ula told the House.
However, he noted that confirmation of the vaccines’ arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was not enough.
Wetang’ula ordered the committee to verify how effectively the Ministry of Health is distributing the vaccines across all levels of healthcare facilities.
“Dr Nyikal, in view of the importance of this, I direct you to bring a report on Tuesday next week. I will not give you the luxury of two weeks,” the Speaker said.
“The response should not just be to tell us vaccines have landed in the country, but to demonstrate the level of distribution to every hospital, from the national to the local level. Children are born in every corner of this country and are entitled to these important vaccines.”
Stockouts
Last Week, the Ministry of Health acknowledged the stockouts and announced that fresh consignments of both polio and BCG vaccines had arrived in the country.
In a statement, Medical Services Principal Secretary, Dr Ouma Oluga, said efforts to redistribute available vaccine stocks were ongoing.
“The Ministry is actively redistributing available vaccine stocks in collaboration with the county governments to ensure equitable access to all Kenyans in all regions,” Oluga said.
He attributed the stockouts to global supply chain disruptions that have affected vaccine delivery in multiple countries, including Kenya.
To mitigate future shortages, the ministry said it is developing a strategic vaccine reserve intended to serve all 47 counties.
According to Oluga, the reserve will help ensure sustainable access and allow a rapid response in the event of future supply gaps.
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