Avoid vaccine rumours, Health ministry says after reports of polio side effects

The Ministry of Health is investigating unverified reports of adverse effects linked to the recent polio vaccination campaign.

 In an X statement on Thursday, October 10, the ministry urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation as investigations continue.

“The ministry has received reports of adverse effects arising from the polio vaccination campaign. Investigations are ongoing and we will issue a formal statement in due course,” said the ministry.

“We urge the public to refrain from spreading rumours until we release official information.”

The vaccination campaign began a week ago following the detection of four new polio cases at Kakuma Refugee Camp in Turkana West, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Kenya to five.

The Ministry of Health explained that the first case was identified through routine screening of new arrivals at the camp, with the remaining cases detected during follow-up investigations.

The campaign targets nine high-risk counties including Nairobi, Machakos, Kiambu, Kajiado, Busia, Bungoma, Trans-Nzoia, West Pokot and Turkana.

 In Busia, Bungoma, Trans-Nzoia, West Pokot and Turkana counties, the campaign focuses on children under 10 years old.

Specific sub-counties in Machakos, Kiambu and Kajiado were selected due to the recent polio effect detected in Eastleigh.

Concerns over the vaccination surfaced on social media, where several users voiced their distrust in the campaign.

One user, Mrs. M, stated, “I distrust this government so much, I refused to get the vaccine for my toddler.”

Another user noted that all vaccines have side effects but stressed that they serve to boost immunity.

 The ministry has directed individuals with concerns to visit its official website or call the hotline for more information.