The Factors and Implications of Polio Vaccine Hesitancy among Pashtuns in the Polio-Endemic Countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.2860Keywords:
Polio eradication, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Polio VaccineAbstract
This project will be a literature review analysis of the impact of vaccine hesitancy upon polio cases in South Asian countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan, specifically regarding the Pashtun ethnic population. This paper will study socio-cultural (such as societal perceptions), political, educational, and regional factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy in South Asia, as well as evaluate public health implications on efforts to combat this resistance to vaccination. It will also discuss parallels between polio vaccine hesitancy and uncertainty surrounding other vaccines such as the Covid-19 vaccines, showcasing a recurring global theme amongst disease or pandemic outbreaks. By synthesizing findings from existing sources, this paper aims to provide insights on how lessons learned from polio-eradicating campaigns among Pashtun people in South Asia can support further strategies for current and future global health initiatives.
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