Hospitals across Kenya are grappling with a shortage of the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, a critical immunization that protects newborns from tuberculosis (TB). The vaccine, typically administered shortly after birth, is essential for preventing severe forms of TB in infants, who are the most vulnerable to the disease. This shortage poses a serious public health concern, as TB remains one of the leading infectious diseases in Kenya. Without timely vaccination, newborns face an increased risk of contracting the infection, which can lead to severe complications or even death.
Health authorities have acknowledged the crisis and are working to address supply chain disruptions that have affected the availability of the vaccine. Efforts are being made to secure additional doses and distribute them to affected regions as quickly as possible. The situation has raised alarm among parents and healthcare providers, with many urging the government to expedite solutions to prevent an escalation of TB cases. Experts warn that prolonged shortages could undermine years of progress in TB prevention and control. As authorities work to resolve the issue, the shortage highlights the need for more robust vaccine procurement and distribution systems to safeguard Kenya’s public health.
