Kyotera Health Workers Grapple with Vaccine Resistance Fueled by Faith and Fear

Health workers in Kyotera District are confronting deep-seated resistance to childhood immunisation, particularly within communities belonging to the Sserulanda Spiritual Foundation. This religious group, founded by the late Joseph Mugonza, places a strong emphasis on spiritual healing, prayer, fasting, and traditional remedies, leading some members to reject government-led health interventions like vaccinations.

“It has completely hindered our work,” stated Dr. Edward Muwanga, Kyotera District Health Officer. He explained that sect members often isolate themselves during immunisation campaigns, leaving children vulnerable to diseases such as polio, measles, tuberculosis, and others preventable through routine vaccination.

Health experts warn that the consequences of not vaccinating can be severe, including permanent disability or death. Diseases like measles can lead to pneumonia and brain swelling, while polio can cause lifelong paralysis. However, some sect members believe their faith and traditional practices offer adequate protection, viewing vaccines as defiling the body’s natural purity.

Misinformation is also cited as a contributing factor to vaccine hesitancy. District health officials are intensifying community engagement, working with local and religious leaders to build trust and encourage vaccine acceptance. The goal is to overcome deeply held beliefs that could jeopardize the health of the district’s youngest residents.

While some officials report widespread resistance, a follower of the Sserulanda faith, Charles Baguma, has refuted these claims. He stated that members of the faith do participate in government health programs and suggested that individuals refusing vaccines may not be representative of the entire sect, accusing critics of unfairly targeting the group.

Regardless of differing perspectives within the community, health officials emphasize that continued dialogue and trust-building are crucial for improving vaccine coverage and protecting children from preventable diseases in Kyotera. The challenge lies not only in administering vaccines but also in addressing the underlying beliefs and misinformation that hinder access to life-saving protection.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)