Analysis
As Nigeria launched a national polio vaccination campaign, local news outlets reported that some parents are refusing polio drops for their children. Officials in Bauchi reportedly threatened to arrest parents who refuse the vaccines. While many commenters criticized the parents, others said the government should focus on other issues, such as hunger and security. Some posts also claimed that polio vaccines are haram (prohibited in Islam), bioweapons, deadly, and not effective.
Recommendations
Talking points may emphasize that polio vaccines are safe, halal, and the only way to protect children from polio. Use trusted messengers to explain that polio will only be eliminated if children everywhere are vaccinated.