The Impactful Efforts of Helmand’s Local Media in Polio Prevention
Helmand, Afghanistan Helmand province’s local media are seen as a powerful force behind polio vaccination campaigns, shifting public perceptions and raising awareness about the importance of vaccination.
Through advertisements, special broadcasts, and interviews with health experts, these media outlets provide accurate and reliable information to much of the province’s population, helping protect their children from the dangerous poliovirus.
“Radio Lashkargah” is one of five private media outlets in Helmand that, through its wide coverage and specialized programming, raises awareness about the benefits of polio vaccination in both urban and rural areas, countering misinformation and rumors.
The station’s director, Haji Abdul Sattar Atayee, stated that local media in the province have played a crucial role in increasing public awareness about polio vaccines and addressing people’s concerns.
He added that, thanks to the active role of the media, there has been a positive shift in the implementation of polio vaccination campaigns, and public cooperation has increased.
According to him, vaccine refusal in Helmand has largely been resolved compared to the past, with over 90% of the population now understanding the importance of vaccinating their children to prevent polio.
“In addition to advertisements about polio vaccination campaigns, we have three weekly health programs where we invite health experts and doctors as guests. People call in to these programs with questions about the polio vaccine and other health-related topics,” he explained.
Similarly, another local radio station in Helmand named “Sukoon,” also contributes to raising awareness through health programs, alongside its other broadcasts.
The station’s director, Hafiz Ahmad Nusrat, noted that public awareness about polio vaccines in the province has significantly increased through radio broadcasts, and many now understand that vaccination is essential for their children’s safety.
“Radio Lashkargah’s” director Haji Abdul Sattar Atayee, stated that local media in the province have played a crucial role in increasing public awareness about polio vaccines and addressing people’s concerns © Polio Free Afghanistan/ 2024/ Saeed Zabuli
“In line with our mission and responsibility toward society, we strive to present specialized health programs. We invite healthcare experts to these programs to provide detailed information about the polio vaccine. These programs not only raise public awareness but also address the doubts and concerns that pose challenges to polio vaccination campaigns in rural areas.,” he added.
Nusrat also expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its financial support of these health broadcasts and other local media outlets.
He said, “With UNICEF’s help, we have been able to deliver accurate and effective information about polio vaccines to the public, especially to residents of remote and rural areas who were previously unaware of the benefits of vaccination.”
Tribal elders in Helmand also acknowledge the significant role that local media play in the implementation of polio vaccination campaigns.
Haji Dost Mohammad, a tribal elder from Garmsir district, shared, “Many years ago, my sister and cousin were left disabled by polio due to our lack of awareness. Had we known the benefits of vaccination, we would have ensured their vaccination, and they would be healthy today.”
He added that, at that time, there were no local media outlets to inform people. However, now that local media are available, many people have become aware of the benefits of vaccination.
He mentioned his district as an example, where no one now refuses to vaccinate their children.
Polio vaccination campaign volunteers also believe that local media have played a vital role in gaining public cooperation and support.
One volunteer, named Mohibullah, said, “When we go to the villages during polio vaccination campaigns, people tell us they have learned about the importance of the polio vaccine through the media. The media have dispelled people’s doubts and concerns, and as a result, everyone now cooperates with us during the campaigns.”
He added that compared to the past, people are now much more aware of the importance of polio vaccination, and they eagerly ensure their children get vaccinated.
The efforts of local media in Helmand are considered one of the major successes in the fight against polio. With the help of the media, concerns that previously existed about vaccination have largely been addressed, and public awareness has significantly increased.
By Saeed Zabuli, Polio Free Afghanistan
