Analysis
An influencer with a large Nigerian following falsely claimed that “polio became viral thanks to the vaccines.” The post suggests that vaccines are unnecessary because God created humans “without defect.” Responses to the post claim that polio never existed or was created in a lab to promote vaccines. Another popular post from a Kenyan astrologist calls polio vaccines “poison” and “bioweapons.”
Recommendations
Some people continue to claim that polio vaccines are unnecessary or unsafe. Consider partnering with trusted communicators, including religious and community leaders, to explain the danger that polio poses to unvaccinated children and the importance of vaccination to protect children and their families from the debilitating disease. Messaging may emphasize that vaccination is the only way to prevent polio and that all major religions support the use of the polio vaccine.