Vaccines have protected millions of people from serious illnesses. However, many Nigerians still delay vaccination because of rumours shared through WhatsApp, social media and word of mouth.
Having questions about vaccines is normal. Making health decisions based on unverified information can be dangerous.
Here are four common vaccine myths—and the facts you need to know.
MYTH 1 – “Vaccines cause infertility.”
THE TRUTH: Approved vaccines do not cause infertility.
There is no credible scientific evidence that approved vaccines cause infertility in men or women.
This rumour is frequently associated with vaccines such as HPV, hepatitis B and COVID-19. The HPV vaccine actually helps protect against infections that may cause cervical cancer and other serious diseases.
“Do not allow an anonymous voice note to make a lifelong health decision for you.”
MYTH 2 – “A vaccine can give me the disease.”
THE TRUTH: Vaccines prepare your body to fight disease.
Vaccines train your immune system to recognise and respond to specific infections.
After vaccination, some people may experience mild reactions such as pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache or a mild fever. These reactions are usually temporary and do not normally mean that the vaccine has given you the disease.
“A mild reaction can be a sign that your immune system is learning how to protect you.”
MYTH 3 – “Vaccines are only for children.”
Vaccination does not end in childhood.
Depending on your age, occupation, health condition, travel plans and previous vaccination history, you may need protection against diseases such as:
- Hepatitis B
- HPV
- Influenza
- Tetanus
- Meningitis
- Typhoid
- Cholera
- Rabies
Healthcare workers, students, travellers and people working in high-exposure environments may have additional vaccination needs.
“Growing older does not mean growing beyond the need for protection.”
MYTH 4 – “If vaccinated people can still get infected, vaccines do not work.”
THE TRUTH: Vaccines can significantly reduce the severity of disease.
No vaccine provides 100% protection to every person.
However, vaccination may reduce your risk of severe illness, complications, hospitalisation, long-term health problems and death.
A vaccinated person may still become infected, but the illness may be less severe than it would have been without vaccination. Completing all recommended doses is also important.
“Protection is not only about avoiding infection—it is also about preventing severe illness.”
Before You Forward That Message…
Ask yourself:
- Who originally published the information?
- Is the person medically qualified?
- Is reliable evidence provided?
- Can the claim be confirmed by a recognised health institution?
- Have I discussed it with a licensed health professional?
“A message being popular on WhatsApp does not make it medically correct.”
Make Your Vaccination Decision Based on Facts
It is normal to have questions about vaccines. Speak with a licensed pharmacist, doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before making your decision.
AfriVacx makes it easier to find and book vaccination services through participating licensed community pharmacies.
Do not let a rumour leave you unprotected.
Book your vaccination today