Analysis
In late December, claims began circulating that two new suspected polio cases were identified in Gaza. The story circulated on social media, as one user criticized the “clumsy placebo” polio vaccination campaign. One commenter claimed that people in Gaza should refuse the vaccine because it causes polio.
Recommendations
The claim may negatively impact the ongoing polio vaccination campaign by sowing distrust in these efforts. Debunking the messaging may explain that no health officials or organizations have reported new polio cases in Gaza, and the Palestine Red Crescent Society has denied any knowledge of the alleged cases. Talking points may emphasize that the polio vaccine is safe and the only way to prevent polio.