The Government has kicked off the Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV) campaign in Kamukunji and Embakasi Central sub counties in Nairobi.
The campaign which was launched by Suzanne Silantoi, Nairobi County’s Executive Committee Member of Health, at Kitui grounds in Kamukunji. Is meat to vaccinate approximately 1.5 million people.
The campaign targets people aove oe year old in six targeted counties which include, Nairobi, Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Homa Bay, Machakos, and Garissa.
“Let’s protect our communities from cholera and ensure a healthier future!Get vaccinated today and encourage your friends and family to do the same,” Silantoi said during the launch.
The campaign is in response to the ongoing cholera outbreak that has affected the nation since October 2022.
As of 18th July 2023, the country has reported a staggering 11,181 cholera cases and 196 fatalities in 26 counties.
The Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 1.7pc, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the critical need for prompt action.
The successful first round of vaccination conducted in February 2023 saw 2.2 million people above the age of 1 vaccinated in Nairobi, Garissa, Tana River, and Wajir, resulting in a significant reduction in cholera cases in those areas.
Building on this progress, the International Coordinating Group (ICG) has provided the Ministry of Health with 1,533,199 doses of the Oral Cholera Vaccine for the upcoming campaign.
The Ministry of Health has also strengthened coordination activities, water, sanitation, and hygiene efforts, risk communication networks, community engagement, patient case management, and laboratory confirmation of cases in collaboration with county governments, line ministries, and partners.
