Strengthening Immunization Efforts in Nakuru County
Written by Ruth Magak
Nakuru County marks the fruitful conclusion of World Immunization Week, culminating in a comprehensive data review session that brought together key actors from across different sub-counties in Nakuru.
The collective efforts have propelled the county closer to the goal of ensuring widespread immunization coverage in Nakuru.
Speaking during the data review meeting that marked the conclusion of this impactful week, County Chief Nursing Officer Wendy Tirop emphasized the importance of increasing the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which currently stands at 50 per cent coverage.
“We must redouble our efforts to increase the uptake of the HPV vaccine. Protecting our children from preventable diseases is paramount, and we have the power to make a difference. This is the only indicator that is at 50 per cent with all other indicators at over 90 per cent coverage,” she said.
In addition, the County recognized a nurse who demonstrated exceptional dedication and creativity in reaching underserved communities.
Wendy Tirop praised the outstanding efforts of Gladys Rop, a nurse at Majani Mingi Dispensary stating that this nurse went above and beyond, conducting house-to-house visits and successfully tracing three children above one year who had never been vaccinated.
“This indicates that we have children in the community who have not been vaccinated. For us to reach a coverage to enable us to attain herd immunity, we need to ensure every child receives all the domestic antigens before their 1st birthday and the second Measles-Rubella dose at 18 months,” said Tirop.