Deborah Barasa: Polio vaccine safe despite mild side effects during campaign

Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa says the recent polio vaccine is safe, addressing concerns after reports of side effects during the campaign.

In a statement on Friday, October 18, Barasa noted the ministry vaccinated 3.7 million children in nine counties from October 2 to 6.

She urged parents to report any adverse side effects through USSD *271#, noting that mild reactions are expected but do not impact the vaccine’s safety.

 “Mild side effects like fever or irritability are common in vaccinations, but we assure parents the vaccine is effective,” said Barasa.

The vaccination campaign followed the unexpected detection of the poliovirus in Turkana and Nairobi counties, as well as the Mbale region of Uganda.

Barasa explained that the virus’s presence in these areas prompted an urgent response to protect children.

The campaign focused on Busia, Bungoma, Trans-Nzoia, West Pokot, Turkana, Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, and Kajiado counties.

The CS observed that polio, while disabling and potentially life-threatening, is preventable through vaccination.

The country routinely administers polio vaccines to children at birth, six weeks, 10 weeks and 14 weeks.

She encouraged parents to seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms occur in children.