From October 5 to 9, the polio and measles vaccination campaign has put parents in front of a difficult decision. While some vaccinate their children without hesitation, others remain wary, especially regarding injections. Fears of fever, rumors, and beliefs continue to fuel reluctance.
In Mahajanga and Diana, community agents and health personnel report cases of hesitation or refusal. The fear of needles and fever is a recurring theme. Some parents believe their children already have natural protection, while others cite alleged health consequences, traditional taboos, or religious convictions. A lack of information also plays a significant role.
In private schools, oral vaccines are more accepted than injections. Some parents prefer to accompany their children personally when an injection is scheduled.
Dr. Paulin Ramasy, Regional Director of Public Health in Diana, notes that some families even set dogs on health workers who insist on explaining the benefits of vaccination. Dr. Ravelomanana Lova, a pediatrician at the Ambohimiandra Children’s Hospital, emphasizes that unvaccinated children are more vulnerable to diseases like measles, tetanus, and respiratory infections.
According to Professor Noeline Ravelomanana, mobilization had decreased after the announcement of polio elimination. However, two cases were recently confirmed in Sakaraha and Toliara, with the virus also detected in the environment. Measles also remains a threat, with 394 confirmed cases across 63 districts. The first-dose coverage was only 49% in 2025, far below the 95% required for herd immunity.
The campaign targets 5.9 million children for polio and 5.36 million for measles, with 43,000 community agents mobilized. Ultimately, the success of the campaign depends on the dialogue between health workers and families to address these concerns.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-06 05:53:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/vaccination-entre-rumeurs-et-protection.html