The Ministry of Health has responded to the allegations by Kenyans that the recent polio vaccine administered to children is causing more harm than good to their health.
Speculation from Kenyans alleged that the polio vaccine is causing adverse reactions in children, allegedly causing them paralysis, sickness, and in some extreme cases, mortality.
Responding to the allegations, the Ministry confirmed that it had received the reports, and has launched investigations into the matter. The Ministry also revealed that the government will address the matter in a formal statement after the investigations are concluded.
"The Ministry of Health has received unverified reports regarding adverse events arising from the recent polio vaccination campaign. Investigations are ongoing, and a formal statement will be issued in due course.", read part of the statement on their official X page.
The Ministry has however warned Kenyans against spreading rumors about the vaccine.
"We discourage members of the public from spreading rumors and misinformation until the Ministry issues official information on this matter." the Ministry continued.
Kenyans took to social media to complain of the unusual reactions their children were getting after being administered the vaccine. Many complained that the vaccine caused extremely high temperatures to their children, causing them to become sick, and one adverse reaction was from a Kenyan who complained that the vaccine was the cause of their child's demise.
Members of the public also complained that health workers administering the vaccine were using cars with hidden number plates asking what their agenda was.
The Ministry of Health has provided a platform for anyone who has any questions about the vaccine to channel their concerns to them. Kenyans can report, inquire or seek more information about polio at http://health.go.ke or call 719.
The Ministry of Health launched a nationwide polio vaccination campaign from October 2-6 in response to a recent outbreak of circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Type 2 in the country.
Five cases of polio had been reported in the country with four instances in Kakuma Refugee Camp and one case in Kamukunji Sub-County, Nairobi.
According to PS for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni the vaccine targeted over 3.8 million children under the age of five across nine high-risk counties: Nairobi, Busia, Bungoma, Turkana, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Kiambu, Machakos.
