The nationwide vaccination campaign against typhoid and measles-rubella officially came to a close on Monday, July 14, marking the end of one of the most extensive immunisation drives in Kenya’s history.
Launched on July 5 by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with global health partners including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF, the campaign targeted children aged between 9 months and 14 years.
The initiative sought to protect them from life-threatening illnesses, particularly in regions susceptible to waterborne diseases like typhoid.
In Vihiga County, the campaign recorded a significant turnout. According to County Health Records and Information Officer Amboso Wycliffe, a total of 208,327 children received the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) against a target of 235,514, translating to an 88 per cent coverage.
For the measles-rubella component, 59,636 children were vaccinated out of the 66,922 targeted, achieving an 89 per cent success rate.
County Health Promotion Officer, Evelyn Mwango, lauded the successful execution of the campaign, attributing it to coordinated efforts by stakeholders from various government ministries and health partners.
“The turnout was impressive despite challenges such as delays caused by the rainy season. Stakeholders collaborated effectively to dispel misconceptions surrounding the vaccines and ensure broad reach,” said Mwango.
She, however, cautioned parents and guardians that vaccines like TCV and measles-rubella are administered only in controlled environments such as schools, health facilities, and churches — not through door-to-door visits.
“Some parents missed out, thinking the vaccines would be delivered to their homes. But due to the need for post-vaccination monitoring, such vaccines must be administered at designated sites,” Mwango explained.
To reach remote and underserved areas, mobile vaccination teams were deployed across the county, setting up stations in schools, marketplaces, and churches. Community Health Volunteers played a crucial role in mobilising parents and caregivers, particularly in rural communities.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Health has announced plans to integrate the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine into Kenya’s routine immunisation schedule.
Children will now receive their first dose at 9 months of age, a move expected to offer long-term protection against typhoid, especially in counties like Vihiga that have previously experienced outbreaks linked to contaminated water sources.
By Rose Wasike and Terry Munikah
