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.