Ministry Of Health Addresses Vaccine Shortage In Kenya
The situation has sparked alarm over the state of immunisation programs, as essential vaccines such as BCG (for Tuberculosis), Polio, and Rotavirus are in critically short supply.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
The Ministry of Health has released a statement highlighting a severe vaccine shortage in Kenya, disclosing that 12 out of the country’s 47 counties have exhausted their vaccine supplies.
The situation has sparked alarm over the state of immunisation programs, as essential vaccines such as BCG (for Tuberculosis), Polio, and Rotavirus are in critically short supply.
However, in a statement, the Aden Duale-led ministry said, "The Ministry of Health remains committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Kenyans. In this regard, we acknowledge the challenges currently facing vaccine stock levels and immunisation efforts across the country."
A medical personnel holding a BCG vaccine. /RACGP
In its press statement, the Ministry of Health warned that several vaccines are running critically low. Supplies of the BCG (Tuberculosis) and Polio vaccines are expected to last only two more weeks, while the Rota Virus vaccine has about a month's stock remaining.
This shortage has already caused disruptions, especially in counties where vaccine supplies have been entirely depleted.
Health professionals are concerned that the ongoing shortage could seriously undermine efforts to shield children from preventable illnesses, at a time when Kenya is striving to boost vaccination rates and eliminate diseases such as polio and tuberculosis.
The Ministry stated further that it is actively redistributing available vaccine stocks in collaboration with County Governments to ensure equitable access to all Kenyans in all regions. "We appreciate the ongoing cooperation of County Governments and healthcare facilities in managing this situation," added the statement.
"The low vaccine stock levels have resulted from a combination of factors and mainly the Global vaccine supply bottlenecks, which continue to impact several countries," Principal Secretary, State Department for Medical Services, Dr Ouma Oluga, outlined the reason for the shortage.
In response to the vaccine shortage, the Ministry of Health has rolled out a set of emergency measures. It confirmed that 3.2 million doses of the Polio vaccine are currently being cleared at the port and are scheduled for distribution by June 10, 2025.
An additional 3 million doses of the BCG vaccine are expected to arrive soon, with distribution planned by June 15, 2025.
To prevent future disruptions, the Ministry is also setting up a Strategic Vaccine Reserve in all 47 counties. This initiative aims to streamline vaccine distribution and improve supply management going forward.
Principal Secretary Dr. Oluga assured the public that no child will be left unvaccinated because of the current shortage. He highlighted the Ministry’s Zero-Dose Catch-Up Mechanism, which prioritises children who have missed routine immunisations and ensures fair vaccine access across the country.
Dr. Oluga reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the health of all Kenyans, especially children. The public has been urged to stay calm as efforts continue to secure additional vaccine supplies, with the assurance that children's health remains a national priority.
