Misleading video clip fuels conversation about distrust of polio workers

Polio Pulse

Polio Pulse provides social listening insights to support GPEI’s polio interventions on disinformation, crisis communication, and strategic communication. Data is monitored from polio-endemic and outbreak countries and geographies classified by GPEI, covering 12 major languages spoken in these regions. The platform is managed by the UNICEF Digital Community Engagement (DCE) team.

Low Risk

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Misleading video clip fuels conversation about distrust of polio workers

Geography

Pakistan

Themes

Conspiracy theories

Necessity

Analysis

A video clip circulating online claims to show parents being arrested for refusing to allow their child to get vaccinated. The clip garnered outrage from people who expressed distrust in polio workers, claimed that polio vaccines are a “scam,” and insisted that polio eradication efforts are a Western agenda.

Recommendations

Although the clip has the potential to sow distrust in polio workers, it has not circulated widely or received much engagement. According to local news reports, the man in the video was arrested for harassing two female polio workers and intentionally opening the door while naked.

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Alert Categories

◉ High risk

Narratives with widespread circulation across communities or countries, high engagement, exponential velocity, and a high potential to impact vaccination efforts.

◉ Medium risk

Narratives circulating in priority countries that may impact vaccination decisions. Potential for further spread due to the tactics used or because of predicted velocity. May highlight legitimate questions and concerns, not just false claims.

◉ Low risk

Narratives that are limited in reach, aren't impacting priority communities, or lack the qualities necessary for future spread. Helpful to know because these narratives may indicate information gaps, confusion, or concerns.