Immunization Week 2025

April 28, 20251

WORLD IMMUNIZATION WEEK

Introduction

“Watu wanasema…” – But is it true?
In Tanzania, vaccines protected millions of lives. But harmful myths persist—spread by whispers in the marketplace, on the radio talk shows, and even in the religious meetings.
From fertility fears to concerns over COVID-19, these myths have had many wondering what’s real and what’s not.

“Vaccines cause infertility”

MYTH:
Other people think that vaccines, particularly the HPV vaccine, can lead to infertility. It spread rapidly by word of mouth in communities and religious broadcasts on the radio.

FACT:
Vaccines are not known to cause infertility. In fact, the HPV vaccine shields young girls against cervical cancer — ensuring their reproductive health in years to come.

Vaccines are unsafe”

MYTH:
Vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, are regarded by some as unsafe or experimental, particularly due to the fact that they were manufactured rapidly.

FACT:
All vaccines administered in Tanzania undergo rigorous global safety testing and trials. They are approved, safe, and continuously watched for side effects.

“Vaccines contradict religion”

MYTH:
A few religious leaders discouraged vaccination, citing that it goes contrary to spiritual principles.

FACT:
Most religions’ core values of caring for others and avoiding pain are reflected in life-saving vaccines that are endorsed by various faith-based health organizations.

“Natural remedies are better than vaccines”

MYTH:
Throughout the pandemic, there were those that felt that traditional or herbal treatments were superior to vaccination.

FACT:
Although natural treatments can contribute to overall health, they cannot guard people against viruses such as measles, polio, or COVID-19. It is vaccines that can provide this type of specific protection.

“Vaccines are a foreign plot”

MYTH:
Conspiracies also state that vaccines form part of a plot assisted by foreigners aimed at harming Africans.

FACT:
They were developed by researchers all over the planet — and by Africans too. They were made to shield and protect, rather than injure. If we did not have vaccines, polio would be paralysing children in Tanzania today.

“Vaccines are only for children”

MYTH:
A few grown-ups believe that vaccines are meant solely for kids, and therefore, they forego vaccines like the COVID-19 vaccine or HPV vaccine.

FACT:
Vaccines protect individuals at every age. Vaccines are also needed by adults in order to remain healthy and safe from diseases like COVID-19, influenza, and cervical cancer.

Conclusion

Don’t risk your health by believing in myths!
Vaccines are safe, tested, and save lives — your life and your family’s life. Tanzania is getting ahead — and your choice to be vaccinated continues that forward motion.

Select facts. Select protection. Select life.