Analysis
A social media user with over 52,000 followers posted several videos spreading false claims about polio vaccines. The videos, which claim to warn parents about the alleged dangers of polio vaccines, have been shared over 7,500 times and received dozens of supportive comments. One video features a U.S.-based vaccine conspiracist. Responses to the videos claim that polio vaccines are “poisonous” and used to control the population. Others allege that polio vaccines contain ingredients that are “haram” or prohibited in Islam.
Recommendations
Consider partnering with trusted faith leaders to explain that Islamic scholars worldwide support polio vaccines, which testing has proved do not contain haram ingredients. Health communicators may continue to highlight that polio vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and are responsible for eliminating polio in most of the world. Messaging may emphasize that billions of children and multiple generations have safely received the polio vaccine.