Polio Vaccination Campaign Faces Resistance in Benin Amidst Religious Opposition
July 22, 2025
world-today-news.com Staff
A polio vaccination campaign in Natingougou, Atacora department, has encountered resistance from a religious leader and his followers in Péporiyakou. Teh group opposes the administration of vaccines, citing religious incompatibility with the health intervention.
The opposition stems from a pastor leading an unrecognized, informal church. Members of this community have actively resisted the vaccination drive,which was initiated in response to a polio case detected in Péporiyakou in April. Local authorities reported that the pastor was arrested on Sunday, July 20, 2025.
Basile Mané,the district chief of Péporiyakou,attempted to persuade the faithful to reconsider their stance. Though, his efforts were met with a firm refusal.the pastor reportedly stated that he received the Holy Spirit and that, in the name of faith, children should not be given the vaccines.
Health authorities, supported by partners, have deployed significant resources to curb the potential spread of the polio virus. Given the continued resistance,the pastor was apprehended to explain his actions. Officials emphasized the campaign’s importance in protecting children from a virus still present in parts of the country.
“I would like to ask the population to be very careful, because health has a price,” stated the borough chief. “If the government puts the means for health coverage, it is in the interest of citizens to join it. There is God, but next to it, there is Caesar. Let us give to God what is to God and to Caesar what is to Caesar.”
Evergreen Insights
Polio, a debilitating and possibly fatal infectious disease, is caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects children under five years old. The virus spreads from person to person, mainly through contaminated water or food. While there is no cure for polio, it can be prevented through vaccination.Global efforts to eradicate polio have been highly triumphant, with the disease now endemic in only a few countries. Though, pockets of resistance to vaccination, frequently enough fueled by misinformation or religious beliefs, can hinder eradication efforts and pose a risk of resurgence.
frequently Asked questions
- What is the primary reason for the opposition to the polio vaccination campaign in Péporiyakou?
- The opposition is rooted in the religious beliefs of a group of faithful, led by a pastor, who believe their faith is incompatible with receiving vaccines.
- When was the polio vaccination campaign initiated in response to the polio case?
- The campaign was initiated following the detection of a polio case in Péporiyakou last April.
- who attempted to convince the resistant group to accept the polio vaccines?
- basile mané, the district chief of Péporiyakou, attempted to persuade the faithful to change their decision.
- what was the pastor’s stated reason for opposing the polio vaccines?
- The pastor stated that he received the Holy Spirit and that,in the name of faith,children should not be given the vaccines.
- What action did authorities take regarding the pastor’s resistance to the polio vaccination campaign?
- Authorities arrested the pastor to understand his actions and explain his opposition to the polio vaccination campaign.
- What is the main goal of the polio vaccination campaign?
- The campaign aims to protect children from the polio virus, which is still present in certain localities in the country.
Disclaimer: This article discusses public health initiatives and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. Consult with qualified professionals for any personal concerns.
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