12 counties run out of vaccines, Ministry of Health confirms
The Ministry has announced that 3.2 million doses of the polio vaccine are currently being cleared at the port, with nationwide distribution set for June 10, 2025.
Twelve out of Kenya's 47 counties have completely run out of vaccines, the Ministry of Health confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga.
The Ministry acknowledged growing concerns over vaccine shortages, assuring the public that immediate measures are being taken to address the situation and ensure that no child is left unvaccinated.
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According to the Ministry, the country is currently experiencing critically low stock levels for several essential vaccines.
Supplies of the BCG (tuberculosis) and polio vaccines are expected to last only two more weeks, while the rotavirus vaccine stock is projected to last about a month.
These shortages have largely been attributed to global vaccine supply bottlenecks, which continue to affect several countries, including Kenya.
In the meantime, the Ministry is working closely with County Governments to redistribute available stocks and prioritise the hardest-hit areas.
It expressed gratitude to county authorities and health facilities for their ongoing support and cooperation during this period of constrained supply.
To alleviate the pressure on the health system, the Ministry has announced that 3.2 million doses of the polio vaccine are currently being cleared at the port, with nationwide distribution set for June 10, 2025.
Additionally, 3.0 million doses of the BCG vaccine are expected to arrive and be distributed by June 15, 2025.
The Ministry is also laying the foundation for long-term preparedness by establishing a Strategic Vaccine Reserve in all 47 counties.
This initiative will be sustainably financed and efficiently managed to ensure that future vaccine disruptions are avoided.
"We want to assure all Kenyans that no child will miss a single dose of any vaccine. Our Zero-Dose Catch-Up Mechanism is active and operational, and we are fully committed to protecting the health of every child in this country," said Oluga.
The Ministry called on the public to remain calm and cooperative as efforts to restore full vaccine availability continue across the country.
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