The Ministry of Health has announced the rollout of a nationwide immunization campaign aimed at curbing the spread of typhoid and measles-rubella (MR).

In a statement on Wednesday, July 2, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the campaign will run from Saturday, July 5 to Monday, July 14.

"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," he said.

Duale noted that Kenya is currently grappling with a surge in antimicrobial-resistant typhoid, particularly affecting children under the age of 15.

According to the CS, vaccination has proven to be the only way the spread of the disease can be stopped.

"Kenya is facing rising cases of antimicrobial-resistant typhoid, with children under 15 years bearing the greatest burden and those under five most at risk of death.

"The spread of drug-resistant typhoid—exacerbated by climate change and urbanization—poses a real and growing threat. Vaccination has proven to be a powerful tool in stopping this disease," he added.

In addition to typhoid, Kenya has also witnessed an increase in measles cases, with outbreaks reported in 18 counties. 

Between January 2024 and February 2025, the Ministry recorded 2,949 measles cases and 18 related deaths.

"Poor uptake of the second dose of the MR vaccine at 18 months has left many children dangerously exposed,” noted the CS.

To address these challenges, the Ministry will conduct a targeted Supplementary Immunization Activity (SIA) during the campaign period. 

The exercise will include Measles-Rubella vaccine for children aged 9 to 59 months and Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) for children aged 9 months to 14 years.

Duale said following the campaign, TCV will be integrated into Kenya’s routine immunization schedule and will be administered at nine months of age.

"This rollout is a firm demonstration of the Kenya Government's commitment to ensuring that no child dies from a vaccine-preventable disease. We will not relent until every child, in every village and town, is protected through timely vaccination," he stated.

Duale has called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to fully support the campaign by ensuring all eligible children are vaccinated.

He also urged county health departments, religious leaders, and international partners to mobilize resources and help guarantee the program’s success.

"We call on parents, caregivers, and communities to ensure every eligible child is vaccinated. We also urge our county health teams, faith leaders, and partners to mobilize and make this campaign a success,' he concluded.