Overcoming resistance to polio immunization

In Niger, support from traditional leaders is critical to help increase community acceptance and vaccination coverage

By Islamane Abdou
Overcoming resistance to polio immunization
UNICEF Niger/2019/Islamane
20 June 2019

In Niger, some pockets of resistance to polio immunization still persist in some villages. Refusals are largely caused by ignorance, rumors, beliefs, illiteracy and other social factors. Support from traditional leaders is critical to help increase community acceptance and vaccination coverage. 

With support from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, millions of children were reached with polio vaccine across the country during the National Immunization Days conducted in June. And this time, the campaign was coupled with Vitamin A Supplementation and deworming thanks to the support of La Fondation L’Occitane and the Canadian International Development Agency.

UNICEF Niger/Islamane