The Ministry of Health has announced plans for a comprehensive nationwide immunization campaign targeting children under 15 years against Typhoid and Measles-Rubella.
In a press release issued by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, the immunization drive is scheduled to take place from July 5 to July 14, 2025.
The campaign will administer specific vaccines tailored to different age groups. Children between 9 months and 59 months will receive the Measles-Rubella vaccine, while the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) will be given to all children aged 9 months up to 14 years.
Emphasizing the urgency and importance of the exercise, CS Duale stated: "The Ministry of Health will roll out a nationwide immunization campaign from 5th to 14th July 2025 targeting Typhoid and Measles-Rubella (MR)—two dangerous, yet preventable diseases threatening the health and lives of our children."
Duale highlighted the growing urgency of the campaign, noting that Kenya is currently grappling with a concerning rise in cases of antimicrobial-resistant typhoid. He added that children under 15 years of age face a particularly high risk of mortality from the drug-resistant typhoid.
According to the ministry, these vaccinations will stop these diseases, stating that the spread of drug-resistant typhoid is exacerbated by climate change.
MR vaccine
He revealed that in 18 counties, 2,949 cases and 18 deaths of measles were recorded between January 2024 and February 2025.
Duale said that the poor uptake of the second dose of the MR vaccine at 18 months has left many children dangerously exposed.
The ministry added that TCV will be integrated into the routine immunization schedule for children at 9 months of age.
He urged parents, caregivers, and communities to ensure every child is vaccinated during this period.
The ministry also asked the county health teams, faith leaders, and partners to mobilize and make this campaign a success.
"Our goal is clear: 95% MR coverage and 80% TCV coverage. No child should suffer or die from diseases we can prevent," the statement reads.
