Health authorities in Malindi are working to curb a measles outbreak, amid concerns over low childhood immunization coverage that threatens to expose the community to more epidemics.

At least four children have been diagnosed with measles in the Shella area of Malindi town.

Officials have launched a door-to-door mop-up exercise, administering repeat measles vaccine doses to children who may have missed the recent campaign.

Sub-county Public Health Officer Alex Maitha said despite government efforts, many children have not received the two recommended doses of the measles-rubella vaccine.

“Our immunization coverage is very low, and we are already witnessing an outbreak. We are conducting mop-ups in homes and schools to ensure no child is left out,” Maitha said.

Speaking during a sensitization workshop for community leaders, Maitha added that campaigns on measles, rubella, and typhoid had improved coverage slightly but still fell short of targets.

He also warned of the spread of M-pox, noting two samples had been taken for analysis in Kilifi and 140 cases confirmed in Mombasa.

“Mpox spreads quickly through skin contact. If a vaccine becomes available, we must embrace it to avoid another outbreak,” he said.

Sub-county Nursing Services Coordinator Esther Kasichana raised alarm over low uptake of the HPV vaccine, with coverage in Malindi standing at below 10 percent.

“Many parents and even teachers hesitate when vaccines are brought to schools. We must raise awareness so caregivers understand their importance, especially for children under five,” she said.

Immunization Coordinator John Karisa urged parents to use the 23 health facilities in Malindi offering routine vaccines.

“By July, our coverage was just 35 percent against a 90 percent target for December. Parents and all stakeholders must take responsibility because health is a shared duty,” Karisa said.

Religious leaders have also backed the campaign. Malindi cleric Famau Mohammed Famau dismissed myths around vaccines, urging parents to act responsibly.

“There is no harm in vaccination. We oppose false beliefs that discourage it. Parents must protect their children,” he said.

Health officials are counting on community sensitization and wider stakeholder involvement to boost immunization coverage and protect Malindi residents from preventable disease outbreaks.