The Ministry of Health announced a temporary disruption in the supply of the rotavirus vaccine used in the country’s routine immunisation programme for infants.
The rotavirus vaccine is an oral immunisation used to protect young children from severe diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration caused by the virus.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale revealed a shortage of the Rotavac Frozen vaccine, which is administered to infants at six, ten and fourteen weeks of age to protect them against rotavirus infections.
The ministry said, the disruption follows a notification from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance that the vaccine manufacturer, Bharat Biotech, is experiencing production delays due to facility upgrades.
The delays are expected to affect vaccine deliveries globally between 2026 and 2027.
As of March 3, 2026, Kenya had about 4,000 doses of the vaccine remaining at the national level, which is estimated to last for less than one month.
A shipment that had initially been expected in January 2026 has been delayed, with the earliest anticipated arrival now projected for the end of April.
The ministry says it is working closely with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other partners to fast-track shipments, redistribute available doses equitably across counties, and closely monitor stock levels to minimise disruption to immunisation services.
Parents and caregivers were urged to continue taking children for routine immunisation visits despite the shortage.
Duale also appealed to families to uphold hygiene measures, including regular handwashing with soap, treatment of drinking water, proper food handling, and maintaining clean household environments.
He assured the public that the government is working with global partners to restore normal vaccine supply.
“Protecting the health of all children remains our highest priority,” the statement read in part.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health warned of an increase in influenza cases across several regions of the country, urging the public to observe preventive measures to limit the spread of the respiratory illness.
Health Director General Dr. Patrick Amoth said Thursday surveillance data indicates heightened influenza activity consistent with Kenya’s seasonal flu patterns.
Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral respiratory infection that spreads easily from person to person through droplets released when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces.
“Kenya is currently experiencing an increase in influenza cases in several regions of the country. This increase is consistent with Kenya’s known seasonal influenza patterns, which typically occur between late February and May, and again between July and October each year,” Dr. Amoth stated.
He said data from the National Influenza Surveillance System shows higher than average respiratory illness activity in line with the seasonal trends.
He, however, said most affected individuals are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms and recover with supportive care.
“The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely through strengthened surveillance and laboratory testing, and remains vigilant to ensure timely detection and response to any changes in disease trends,” Dr. Amoth added.
Influenza spreads rapidly in crowded settings such as schools, markets, places of worship, prisons, and public transport. Common symptoms include sudden fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, headache, muscle and joint pain, and general body weakness.
The ministry warned that certain groups face a higher risk of severe illness, including children under five years, older persons, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or weakened immunity.
To curb the spread of the virus, Dr. Amoth said the ministry has strengthened influenza surveillance across sentinel sites, advised health facilities to enhance preparedness and case management, and intensified public health communication on prevention measures.
Members of the public have been encouraged to practice regular hand hygiene, cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, and wear masks if they are unwell—especially in public or around vulnerable individuals.
The ministry also advised those experiencing severe symptoms to seek medical attention promptly and urged individuals who feel unwell to stay home to prevent spreading the infection to others.
“The Ministry reassures the public that the situation is being closely monitored and that appropriate measures are in place to safeguard the health of all Kenyans,” said Amoth.
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