Trans Nzoia County department of health joined a national push to increase immunization rates during World Immunization Week, which ran from April 24th to 30th.
The week focused on reaching all eligible populations with lifesaving vaccines, according to Dr. Mbelesia.
The Ministry of Health, through the National Vaccine and Immunization Program (NVIP), is working with partners to achieve this goal.
“Currently, 8 out of 10 children under two years old have been vaccinated,” Dr. Mbelesia said, citing the 2022 Kenya Demographic Health Survey.
However, she acknowledged concerns about unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children who remain susceptible to vaccine-preventable diseases.
The National Immunization Week provided an opportunity to reach these children, Ms. Angeline Otieno, head of vaccine and immunization for Trans Nzoia County, explained. The county boasts over 120 hospitals and health centers offering vaccinations, eliminating excuses for missed appointments.
Challenges persist, particularly in Kwanza Sub County, where some parents don’t complete their children’s vaccination schedules.
Ms. Otieno emphasized the role of community health promoters in mobilizing residents and ensuring all children are fully vaccinated by their first birthday.
Another concern is the low turnout for the second measles vaccination (MR2). Collaboration between Community Health Promoters (CHPs) and other stakeholders is crucial for contact tracing and ensuring children receive this vital immunization.
Irine Lopakale of USAID’s Ampath Uzima program, working on nutrition and family planning, highlighted the importance of sensitizing the Namanjalala community about immunization. Their goal is to improve coverage in the area, where immunization performance is lagging.
Lopakale emphasized the safety and effectiveness of all vaccines offered in Kenya. They are approved by national authorities and administered by trained healthcare workers at both public and approved private facilities.
The week’s events were attended by Leah Okumu, Trans Nzoia’s County Health Education and Promotion Officer, Christine Omolo, a Public Health Officer, Mary Gethire, a Health Promotion Officer, and Francis Ng’ang’a, the Assistant County Commissioner for Kwanza Sub County, alongside other health department officials.
