Immunisation still our strongest protection, though gaps persist

 An infant is immunised during the integrated nutritional outreach at Kalapata, Turkana South. [Jacob Musya, Standard]

Vaccines are among the most powerful public health tools ever developed. Over the past half-century, they have transformed human health, saving millions of lives. Fewer children now die from preventable illnesses, fewer outbreaks devastate communities, and fewer health systems are overwhelmed by diseases that are already preventable.

This year’s theme, For every generation, vaccines work, is especially relevant for Kenya and Africa. Immunisation remains one of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to save lives, prevent outbreaks, and strengthen communities, yet it is still underutilised in many settings.