Why Some Kids in Nairobi’s Poor Areas Miss the Measles Vaccine

In Mathare, a crowded neighborhood in Nairobi, measles is still a big problem even though there’s a vaccine for it. Many parents bring their kids for the first shot, but fewer come back for the second one. This second dose is meant to make sure the vaccine really works. Researchers wanted to know why some families don’t finish the two-step process. One big issue is access. Mathare is packed with houses, alleys, and makeshift shops. Health clinics are few and far between. Parents might not have time or money to travel to far-off vaccination centers. Some don’t even know the second shot is important. Without reminders or easy trips, families might forget or give up.Another problem is trust. Some parents worry about side effects after the first dose. Others believe false rumors about vaccines causing harm. Local leaders and health workers try to spread the truth, but misinformation spreads faster than facts. Without clear communication, doubts linger. Work schedules also get in the way. Many parents in Mathare work in informal jobs with no paid leave. Waiting in line at a clinic means losing a day’s earnings. Vaccination days might not line up with their free time. Even if they want to vaccinate their kids, daily survival comes first. The study suggests simple fixes—like bringing vaccines closer to homes or sending text reminders. But change takes time. Until then, missed second doses keep measles risk alive.