Polio vaccination in Congo, the case of the Ewo department

An anthropological study of vaccination in the community of Ewo highlights the complex interactions between traditions, religious beliefs and public health policies. The Congolese government, in collaboration with the WHO, is making considerable efforts to promote immunization, but perceptions of the vaccine vary according to local actors. Traditional chiefs facilitate adherence by integrating vaccination into community practices, while some religious leaders express reluctance due to their spiritual interpretations. Young parents, influenced by their family and cultural environment, present contrasting attitudes, ranging from mistrust to reasoned acceptance of the vaccine. Better-adapted awareness-raising strategies, greater involvement of local authority figures and more inclusive communication would improve adherence to vaccine campaigns in rural areas.

Autorentext

Dottorando, laureato con un master di ricerca, docente presso la Facoltà di Lettere, Arti e Scienze umane dell'Università Marien Ngouabi (Congo), specialista in questioni relative all'antropologia medica, autore di diversi libri e articoli.