Kenya’s government has secured three million doses of the BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) vaccine to address a recent shortage. The vaccines, supplied by the Gavi Vaccine Alliance, arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and will be distributed to key regional depots in Kisumu, Kakamega, Nakuru, Eldoret, Nairobi, Mombasa, Nyeri, Meru, and Garissa.
According to Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, the vaccines will be available at public health facilities starting June 15, 2025. He encouraged parents of the estimated 80,000 children who missed their BCG shots to visit nearby health centers for immunisation.
Dr. Oluga also called on county governments to assist in catch-up vaccination efforts to ensure all eligible children receive protection against tuberculosis.
He further revealed that an additional shipment of BCG vaccines is expected in the next nine to twelve weeks, which will further strengthen the country’s immunisation drive. This follows a recent delivery of 3.2 million polio vaccine doses, reflecting the Ministry of Health’s commitment to resolving vaccine shortages.
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Despite current challenges, Dr. Oluga assured the public that the government is actively working to restore full vaccination coverage. “There is no need to worry. We are making progress and ensuring that no child is left behind,” he said.
