NATIONWIDE MR AND TYPHOID VACCINATION CAMPAIGN IN THIKA

The Ministry of Health has officially launched a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting Measles-Rubella (MR) and Typhoid for children across all 47 counties. Running from July 5 to July 14, 2025, the campaign was locally unveiled in Thika, with local leaders, health officials, and community youth calling on parents to take full advantage of the free and life saving service.

Kiambu health officials and youth mobilizers emphasized the need for timely immunization to prevent future disease outbreaks. According to the Ministry of Health, the campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 7.5 million children aged 9 to 59 months against measles-rubella, and 21 million children aged 9 months to 14 years against typhoid.

“These vaccines are safe and have been approved by the government and global health agencies,” said Mr. Bernard Mwega, the Kiambu County Immunization Coordinator, speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Thika. “We urge all parents to bring their children forward, and we’re working to ensure that no child is left behind.”

Vaccinations will be administered at health facilities, schools, churches, mosques, and through mobile outreach teams particularly targeting remote and underserved areas.

The campaign follows confirmed outbreaks and rising cases of both measles and typhoid in several counties, including Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Kericho, and informal settlements in urban areas. Health officials warn that failing to vaccinate now could lead to larger public health emergencies later in the year.

Thika youth leader Mary Wambui rallied fellow young people to be part of the drive, saying:

“We are the bridge between government and the community. Let us be the voice that says: prevention is better than cure.”

Local residents expressed confidence in the campaign, applauding the government’s efforts to reach children where they live, study, and worship. Posters and announcements have also been distributed across Thika Town and its surrounding areas to raise awareness.

Parents are encouraged to carry their children’s health cards to the vaccination sites, though services will still be offered even in their absence.

The Ministry has partnered with county governments, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and local civil society groups to ensure smooth delivery and accurate record keeping. The ultimate goal is to eliminate measles and drastically reduce typhoid infections as part of the broader national public health strategy.