KERICHO, Kenya – Kericho County will begin a countywide immunization campaign on July 4, targeting children aged 9 months to 14 years for measles-rubella and typhoid vaccines. The free vaccination drive will run through July 14 in public and private health centers, schools, churches, and markets.
The initiative comes in response to recent disease outbreaks reported within the target age group. According to County Health Promotion Officer Geoffrey Kigen, the vaccines are proven to be effective in preventing both measles and typhoid infections.
“There has been a concerning rise in measles and typhoid cases among children,” Kigen said. “We urge parents and guardians to take this opportunity to protect their children. The vaccines will be administered at no cost.”
The 10-day campaign aims to reach a 95% coverage rate in the county. Kigen emphasized the importance of public participation to prevent further spread of the diseases.
The campaign is part of a national immunization effort expected to reach approximately 3.9 million children across all 47 counties. After the exercise, both vaccines will be added to Kenya’s routine immunization schedule.
Health officials will deploy teams to local communities to ensure access and raise awareness. Kigen noted that outreach efforts will prioritize high-risk areas where reported infections are most concentrated.
The Kenya Ministry of Health has prioritized the dual vaccination campaign to reduce childhood illness and prevent avoidable deaths linked to vaccine-preventable diseases.
No registration is required for the immunization. Parents are advised to bring children to any designated site during the campaign window.
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