AIRA Infodemic Trends Report 01-09 May 2025
AIRA Infodemic Trends Report 01-09 May 2025
Top concerns
Anthrax: human cases in the DRC and Uganda, Nigeria and Ethiopia reignite questions about transmission and preventive measures
The spread of anthrax cases ignites fears of contamination through meat consumption and debates over a total ban on meat consumption.
Polio in Nigeria: public announcements of a punitive approach against parents opposed to vaccination in Bauchi sparks a heated debate
Reports of local authorities in Bauchi threatening to detain parents refusing the polio vaccination have ignited a heated debate over the most efficient way to increase vaccine coverage.
Persistent trends
Mpox: growing fear of contagion in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and persistent beliefs that mpox is caused by witchcraft in South Kivu, DRC
Since January, Sierra Leone has recorded over 1,100 cases and 9 deaths, while in South Kivu, beliefs that mpox is the manifestation of a “demonic virus” deter people from going to health facilities.
