The Ministry of Health has set aside Ksh1.25 billion to urgently procure vaccines amidst a shortage of children’s vaccines in the country.
In a statement on Thursday, Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai acknowledged the shortage of the BCG vaccine, Oral Polio Vaccine, and Measles Rubella Vaccine, with only two months of stock available nationwide.
PS Kimtai further revealed that stock levels for most other routine childhood vaccines, including those supported by Gavi (such as Pneumococcal, Rotavirus, HPV, and Malaria vaccines), are low, with only three to six months of stock available.
To avert the crisis, Kimtai stated that the ministry is tracking vaccine consumption at all levels nationwide 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,” said PS Kimtai.
Despite logistical challenges from the current heavy rains, the PS assured that the Ministry is fast-tracking the shipment of vaccines, expected to arrive by the first week of June 2024.
“Mechanisms for ‘accelerated transition planning’ from Gavi support are being set up, including exploring innovative options for sustainable financing of vaccine procurement and program operations. We are engaging the National Treasury to ensure increased and dedicated resources are allocated to the immunisation program,” Kimtai stated.
He said the Ministry of Health is closely coordinating with healthcare workers and keeping them informed about measures to alleviate the current situation.
“We urge all caregivers to liaise closely with their healthcare providers and bring their children back to the facilities once stock levels have normalised.”
