Residents of Nakuru County are set to benefit from a major boost in healthcare services following the procurement of vaccines and medicines worth Ksh22 million. This critical intervention, aimed at bolstering disease prevention and treatment, includes essential vaccines for yellow fever, hepatitis B, and typhoid.
Governor Susan Kihika emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting its role in ensuring timely and effective care for both local residents and international travelers. The vaccines are particularly significant after Kenya’s first yellow fever outbreak in 2022, which affected several regions. The county government’s recent procurement comes as part of an ongoing effort to strengthen healthcare access and improve residents’ well-being. Deputy Governor Dr. David Kones, during the dispatch of the supplies, assured the public that the vaccines would be distributed across all public health facilities in the county within a week.
In addition to the Ksh22 million consignment, Dr. Kones announced that another Ksh4 million worth of medicines and vaccines would be delivered to the county in the coming weeks. This is in line with Governor Kihika’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure. To improve the efficiency of distribution, 75% of the supplies will go directly to health facilities, with 25% held as buffer stock to manage potential supply chain disruptions.
Among the vaccines distributed are those for yellow fever, which has seen a resurgence globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends yellow fever vaccination for travelers to areas with a high risk of transmission, such as Lake Nakuru National Park and the Masai Mara game reserves. The vaccine provides immunity within 10 days for 80-100% of people vaccinated.
The hepatitis B vaccine, now part of Kenya’s routine immunization program, is also crucial in the fight against liver disease. Studies have shown a high prevalence of liver cancer in the North Rift and Western regions, linked to chronic hepatitis B infections. The vaccine, offered free of charge at over 9,500 health facilities, is crucial in reducing the incidence of chronic liver disease and cancer.
Typhoid, a major public health concern, is another area targeted by this vaccine delivery. Typhoid fever remains a significant threat, especially in densely populated urban areas with poor sanitation. The WHO estimates 21 million cases annually, making vaccination a critical component of public health strategies.
These efforts underscore the importance of vaccines in preventing outbreaks and improving public health outcomes, particularly in regions vulnerable to infectious diseases. Through these strategic investments, Nakuru County is taking proactive steps to safeguard its population’s health.
