Millions of children across the world remain unprotected against dangerous but preventable diseases due to significant vaccination gaps. In 2023 alone, around 14.5 million children did not receive any routine vaccinations. These so-called “zero-dose” children face the greatest risk of severe illness or even death from diseases that vaccines are specifically developed to prevent.
Vaccines remain one of the most effective and safest tools in public health. They save millions of lives annually by preventing illnesses such as measles, polio, tetanus, and pneumonia. These diseases, if left untreated, can result in long-term complications, disability, or death. Despite the known benefits of immunisation, access remains uneven, and misinformation continues to discourage some parents from taking advantage of available vaccination services.
In Kenya, about 80 per cent of children between the ages of 12 and 23 months are fully immunised. While this is an encouraging figure, it masks significant disparities at the county level. For instance, some counties such as Kiambu have immunisation rates approaching 89 per cent, while others, like Kericho, are much lower at 61 per cent. Such disparities increase the vulnerability of children in lower-coverage regions to outbreaks of diseases that could otherwise be contained or eliminated.
There are several important facts that all parents and caregivers should understand about vaccines. First, vaccines are safe. Each vaccine goes through extensive testing over many years before it is approved for public use. The few side effects that may occur, like mild fever or soreness, are generally minor and short-lived.
Second, vaccines boost the immune system. They prepare a child’s body to recognise and fight specific infections before the child is ever exposed to them, enabling a quick and effective immune response if exposure does happen.
Third, babies are more than capable of handling multiple vaccines at once. Concerns about overloading the immune system are unfounded. In reality, babies encounter far more pathogens in their daily environment than are found in vaccines.
Fourth, timing matters. It is vital for parents to follow the national immunisation schedule to ensure children receive their vaccines at the right time. Delays can leave children exposed during their most vulnerable stages. Fortunately, vaccines are provided free of charge at public health facilities throughout Kenya.
Finally, diseases like measles and polio still exist, even if they’re not commonly seen. A drop in vaccination rates can lead to sudden outbreaks. To prevent such resurgences, at least 95 per cent coverage is needed. Ensuring that every child receives routine immunisation is essential to building a healthier, more resilient population.
