Analysis
On January 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the U.S. from WHO, raising concerns about impacts on funding for global disease prevention, pandemic preparedness, and polio eradication. Several social media posts from East and West African countries discussed how the withdrawal may impact the continent. Many posts suggested that this is a wake-up call for African nations to be less dependent on international aid. While some posts expressed concern about how low-income nations will be affected, other users praised the withdrawal. Posts called WHO “the greatest enemy to man,” corrupt, and “satanic.” Claims also circulated that all vaccines are dangerous and unnecessary.
Recommendations
Fears of international interference and the motivations behind foreign aid are widespread, as are false claims about the safety and effectiveness of polio vaccines. Continuing to explain the purpose of global health initiatives and the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns is recommended. Messaging may emphasize that the polio vaccine is extremely safe and rigorously tested and highlight that polio campaigns are overseen by local ministries of health, which have decision-making power.