Shortage of TB vaccine hits, puts children at risk

An acute shortage of the essential tuberculosis (TB) vaccine has hit public hospitals across the country, posing a significant risk to newborn babies.

A  complete stockout of the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine has been reported in Nyamira, Baringo, Makueni, Bomet, and Narok counties, while several others are operating with limited supplies, while most hospitals have been without the vaccine for over a month.

Counties, such as Vihiga, Homa Bay, Nyandarua, Busia, Uasin Gishu, Kisumu, Samburu, Kajiado, Mombasa, Kakamega, and Nandi are experiencing shortages. Health advocates also report limited stocks in Isiolo, Kisii, Kiambu, West Pokot, Kilifi, and Siaya. Turkana has a minimal supply, while Taita Taveta County only administers the vaccine on specific days. Suna East in Migori County has a stock expected to last for just another month and a half.

A health worker at Mukhobola Health Centre in Busia County told The Standard that the facility has limited stock, administering the vaccine only on Mondays. “We have a few vaccines, but we might experience a shortage as mothers from neighbouring counties are flocking here,” the source said. “The advantage is that the nurse administers the BCG vaccine only on Mondays.”

Tharaka Nithi is the only county with an adequate supply of the BCG vaccine, which provides immunity against tuberculosis under the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunisation (KEPI).

In Baringo, health officials are advising mothers to take precautions. Dr Nancy Chesire, the County Chief Officer of Health, recommended that mothers avoid exposing their babies to individuals who could transmit TB or other diseases. “Mothers are trained to keep their babies close and avoid interaction with others,” she explained.

While the BCG vaccine is available in Baringo, the county lacks the necessary diluent (water for dilution). “We have the vaccine, but lack the diluent. The shortage is national,” Chesire added, advising parents to check with private hospitals, which also have limited supplies.

At Mercy Mission Hospital in Eldama Ravine, there is minimal stock. Nursing officer Emma Koech explained that the hospital receives its supply from KEPI sub-county stores. “Though we have some stock, we might not vaccinate all babies, and some parents may struggle to travel,” Koech said, urging the Ministry to ensure steady vaccine supply to protect vulnerable newborns.

Stephen Anguva, the National Coordinator of the Network of TB Champions Kenya, noted that the shortage was first reported in December last year. “The BCG vaccine is the first defence for babies against TB, and its absence puts them at risk,” he said.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), TB infections in children under five have increased globally. Last year, Kenya reported an alarming rise in TB cases among children under 15, from 12 per cent in 2023 to 13 per cent. In 2023, 139,000 people in Kenya developed TB, including 17,000 children.

While the cause of the shortage remains unclear, Anguva suggested it may stem from a lack of resources. “We must create a clear transition plan from GAVI to the Government of Kenya to ensure vaccine procurement and immunisation are not disrupted,” he said. “Kenya should also consider establishing a vaccine hub.”

Principal Secretary (PS) for Medical Services Harry Kimtai admitted the shortage, attributing it to logistical issues with United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef). “There has been a delay because of an exhausted credit limit,” he explained, adding that the National Treasury had allocated Sh500 million for vaccine procurement. The funds should allow Unicef to replenish supplies by next week.

Kenya has faced vaccine shortages before, including for measles, polio, rotavirus, and tetanus vaccines. Anti-TB advocate Evaline Kibuchi called for urgent action. “The government needs to prioritise the lives of children,” she said, adding, “Failing to supply such a crucial vaccine for over a month shows a lack of commitment to protecting newborns.”