March 27, 2026
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) happens when viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites evolve over time and stop responding to medicines, making infections tough to treat and raising the risk of disease spread, serious illness, and death.
By the numbers: In Kenya in 2021, there were –
- 63,498 Deaths from Bacterial Infections
- 28,548 Deaths Associated with Bacterial AMR
- 6,666 Deaths Attributed to Bacterial AMR
There were 7,339 deaths associated with AMR and 1,620 deaths attributable to AMR in children under 5 years old.
The Role of Vaccines in Controlling AMR
- Vaccines reduce infections by providing direct protection and promoting herd immunity.
- Prevention of infections reduces the spread of drug-resistant germs and the need for treatment with antibiotics.
- Treating drug-resistant infections is expensive. Vaccines reduce healthcare costs and prevent catastrophic expenses for families.
Top Recommendations to Leverage Vaccines in the Fight to Control AMR in Kenya
- Increase coverage of existing vaccines in the immunization schedule, including the newly introduced typhoid conjugate vaccine.
- Include vaccines in insurance coverage and address gaps in affordability and accessibility.
- Address vaccine hesitancy by engaging with community stakeholders and religious leaders.
- Address gaps in vaccine accessibility and distribution to achieve equitable health outcomes and strengthen AMR mitigation efforts.
Learn more in the GARP-Kenya policy brief.
