Kenya is experiencing a temporary shortage of the Rotavac Frozen rotavirus vaccine, which protects infants against severe diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. The vaccine is usually administered at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale attributed the shortage to production delays by manufacturer Bharat Biotech due to facility upgrades, affecting global deliveries between 2026 and 2027.
The country has approximately 4,000 doses remaining, expected to last less than a month. A delayed shipment is now projected to arrive by April 2026. The Ministry of Health is working with UNICEF and partners to fast-track shipments, redistribute doses, and monitor stock levels.
Duale urged parents to continue routine immunisation visits and maintain hygiene measures, including handwashing and proper food handling. The government prioritizes children's health and is working to restore normal vaccine supply.
This shortage is part of a larger issue, with Kenya facing vaccine shortages in the past, including BCG and Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV).
The country has approximately 4,000 doses remaining, expected to last less than a month. A delayed shipment is now projected to arrive by April 2026. The Ministry of Health is working with UNICEF and partners to fast-track shipments, redistribute doses, and monitor stock levels.
Duale urged parents to continue routine immunisation visits and maintain hygiene measures, including handwashing and proper food handling. The government prioritizes children's health and is working to restore normal vaccine supply.
This shortage is part of a larger issue, with Kenya facing vaccine shortages in the past, including BCG and Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV).
