The Ministry of Health (MoH) has made significant strides in its ongoing Measles-Rubella (MR) and Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) campaign, with millions of children already reached since the launch on July 5, 2025.
In a statement issued to the press, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced that 3.5 million children have so far received the MR vaccine, out of a national target of 6.5 million. Additionally, 12.1 million children have been vaccinated with TCV, against a goal of 19.2 million.
Reaching the Unreached
A key milestone in the campaign has been the vaccination of over 4,000 zero-dose children—those who had never previously received any vaccinations. These children have now been immunized with both MR and TCV, significantly boosting population immunity across the country.
To maximize reach, the government has deployed teams to schools, churches, mosques, markets, and other public spaces, as well as conducting door-to-door outreach to ensure all eligible children are covered. Public health facilities across all 47 counties are also providing the vaccines.
Safety and Global Standards
CS Duale reassured the public that both vaccines are World Health Organization (WHO)-approved and have passed rigorous safety assessments. The TCV vaccine, in particular, offers strong protection against drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi, a growing concern in regions with poor sanitation and limited clean water access.
WHO recommends TCV for children aged six months and older in typhoid-endemic areas—a category that includes many regions in Kenya.
Sustainable Access and Future Planning
Looking ahead, the Ministry has confirmed that TCV will now be part of routine immunization for all children at nine months of age. To support this expansion, the government has allocated Kshs 4.9 billion in the 2025/26 Financial Year for vaccine procurement and distribution, aiming to end the recent shortages reported at healthcare facilities.
A National Effort
CS Duale extended appreciation to caregivers, parents, health workers, community mobilizers, and religious leaders for their role in the campaign’s early success. He urged continued participation to ensure that no child is left behind in this life-saving initiative.
For more information or to locate a nearby vaccination center, visit the Ministry of Health’s official website or contact your local health office.
