Kericho County is preparing for a major immunization campaign targeting children aged between nine months and 14 years in an effort to curb the rising cases of measles-rubella and typhoid. The 10-day exercise is scheduled to take place from July 4th to 14th, 2025, and will be conducted across public and private health facilities, as well as in schools, churches, and market centers within the county.
The campaign comes amid a surge in measles and typhoid infections among children in the target age group. Health officials in Kericho have identified the two diseases as significant public health concerns due to their highly contagious nature and potential for complications if left untreated. The vaccination drive aims to provide immunity to those most at risk and prevent further spread of these preventable diseases.
Children within the targeted age group will receive both the measles-rubella and typhoid vaccines free of charge. The vaccines have been proven effective in preventing the onset and transmission of the diseases and are part of a broader national strategy to improve public health outcomes through immunization.
Parents and guardians are being urged to take advantage of the campaign and ensure their children receive the vaccines. With the goal of reaching at least 95 percent coverage in Kericho County, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of community participation. Achieving this level of immunization is essential for establishing herd immunity and minimizing the risk of outbreaks in the future.
The campaign in Kericho is part of a nationwide immunization initiative that aims to vaccinate approximately 3.9 million children across all 47 counties. Following the conclusion of the campaign, both the measles-rubella and typhoid vaccines are expected to be incorporated into Kenya’s routine immunization schedule. This integration will ensure that children receive these vital vaccines as part of their regular healthcare check-ups, thereby sustaining the progress made through the campaign.
As the immunization drive approaches, local health teams are ramping up awareness efforts through community outreach, educational programs, and coordination with schools and religious institutions. These efforts are designed to ensure that parents are informed, children are reached efficiently, and the campaign’s objectives are met. The initiative marks a critical step toward strengthening disease prevention measures and safeguarding the health of Kenya’s younger population.
