A two-month vaccine shortage in Kenya has finally come to an end, bringing relief to countless parents. The government acquired 8 million doses of life-saving vaccines for Ksh.1.25 billion to address the shortfall. This includes essential vaccinations for newborns and children under five, such as BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) to prevent tuberculosis and polio vaccines. The Ministry of Health will distribute the vaccines across the country over the weekend, ensuring all healthcare facilities have stock by Monday.
This will allow vaccinations to resume, preventing complications that can arise when children miss critical immunizations. The previous shortage caused frustration, with scenes of mothers waiting in hospitals for unavailable vaccines. To avoid future shortages, the government has implemented measures to ensure a steady supply of these crucial medications.
Counties like Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nyamira, Kilifi, and Siaya were particularly affected by the lack of vaccines, highlighting the importance of maintaining sufficient stockpiles.
