BY ANGELA R. KIURA
The Embu County Government has launched a 10-day emergency vaccination campaign targeting measles and typhoid, following a worrying rise in infections among children under 15.
Embu CECM for Health Jamal Runyenje said the free campaign, running from July 4 to 14, will be conducted in all public health facilities and aims to reach over 2,000 children.
He urged parents and guardians to present their children for the life-saving vaccines, warning that the diseases can be fatal if left untreated.
“This is part of a national effort to respond swiftly to outbreaks and reduce child morbidity and mortality,” said Runyenje.
Recent data from the Ministry of Health shows that cases of measles have spiked in parts of the country due to low routine immunization coverage and vaccine hesitancy.
Typhoid, a waterborne bacterial infection, has also seen increased reports, especially in densely populated areas with poor sanitation.
Embu County, with a population of just over 600,000, has been flagged as one of the vulnerable regions due to sporadic vaccine uptake and frequent outbreaks of communicable diseases.
The Department of Health has partnered with local chiefs, religious leaders, local media and schools to spread awareness and boost turnout during the campaign.
Officials reminded parents that both vaccines are safe, approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), and part of the government’s essential immunization program.
Health workers will also use the opportunity to screen for other childhood illnesses and educate families on hygiene and nutrition.
The county appealed to all residents to support the campaign and help prevent a wider health crisis.
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