The Ministry of Health (MoH) has alerted the public to a temporary disruption in the supply of the Rotavac Frozen rotavirus vaccine, a critical immunization for infants against severe diarrhea. The shortage is attributed to production delays by the sole manufacturer, affecting delivery schedules across several nations, including Kenya.
In a press statement issued by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Thursday, the Ministry revealed that current national stockpiles are critically low. As of 3rd March 2026, Kenya holds approximately 4,000 doses, which represents less than one month’s supply. The situation has been exacerbated by the delay of a shipment initially expected in January 2026, which is now not anticipated to arrive until the end of April 2026.
The rotavirus vaccine is routinely administered to infants at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age as part of the national immunization program. It protects against rotavirus infections, which are a leading cause of severe, dehydrating diarrhea in young children.
According to the CS, the global supply chain issue stems from the vaccine manufacturer, Bharat Biotech. The company is currently undertaking facility upgrades, which have led to production delays. Kenya was notified of the impending disruption by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which indicated that the production slowdown would impact vaccine deliveries throughout 2026 and into 2027.
Government’s Response Measures
In response to the shortage, the Ministry of Health outlined a series of immediate measures aimed at mitigating the impact on infant vaccinations. “The Ministry of Health is working closely with UNICEF and partners to fast-track shipments, redistribute available doses equitably across counties, and closely monitor stock levels to minimize service disruption,” the cabinet secretary’s press statement read.
CS Duale moved to reassure the public that the situation is being managed with urgency and that every effort is being made to restore normalcy. He emphasized that the protection of children’s health remains the government’s foremost priority.
“The Ministry of Health assures the public that it is working with global partners to restore normal vaccine supply and will continue to provide regular updates,” stated CS Duale.
In a firm commitment to Kenyan families, the Cabinet Secretary added, “Protecting the health of all children remains our highest priority.”
Advice to Parents and Caregivers
While acknowledging the supply constraints, the Ministry strongly advised parents and caregivers not to skip scheduled immunization visits. Health officials stressed that it is vital for children to receive other routine vaccines as planned, even if the rotavirus dose is temporarily unavailable.
To boost protection measures against diarrhoea, the Ministry has issued guidance on enhanced hygiene practices.
In the absence of the vaccine, MoH notes that preventive measures at the household level become increasingly critical.
“Parents and caregivers are encouraged to continue attending routine immunization visits and to strengthen diarrhoea prevention measures, including handwashing with soap, safe water treatment, proper food handling, and maintaining clean household environments,” the Ministry advised in the statement.
MoH stated that it would continue to monitor stock levels closely and provide the public with regular updates on the status of the vaccine supply.
Health facilities across the counties have been informed of the shortage and are expected to advise caregivers on the ground regarding the availability of the rotavirus vaccine during routine visits.
