Restoring Trust in Immunization in Peshawar

In Union Council Shahi Bala, on the outskirts of Peshawar, a young mother’s fear nearly cost her child protection from preventable diseases. When 3-month-old Aiman, daughter of Ghani Ahmad and Ayesha, received her first BCG vaccination, she developed a mild fever. This was a normal and temporary reaction.

But Aiman’s parents, unfamiliar with post-vaccine effects, believed the vaccine had harmed their daughter. Convinced that vaccines were unsafe, the family decided to stop all further vaccinations. They even began advising other families in their community to avoid vaccinating their children.

Under the Gavi-supported immunization program implemented by MERF, once the team learned about Aiman’s case, the LHWs and outreach staff, led by Ms. Sobia, began a series of home visits. Their message was simple but powerful: listen, empathize, and explain.

They reassured the parents that mild fever after vaccination is a normal immune response, a sign that the vaccine is working. They shared information on the risks of missing routine immunization and shared real life stories of other healthy, vaccinated children in the community.

Through consistent counseling and trust-building, her both parents Ghani and Ayesha gradually began to understand. Their fear turned into confidence, and soon after, they brought their daughter Aiman to the EPI Center to continue her immunization schedule.

Today, 3-month-old Aiman is fully vaccinated. Her parents, once fearful and resistant, have become strong advocates for vaccination. They now speak with other parents in their community, encouraging them to protect their children through timely vaccination.

“I was afraid after my daughter got fever from her first vaccine. But with the guidance of MERF team I now understand that vaccines protect children. I am happy that my daughter is safe, and I will make sure she receives all her vaccines.”

–Ayesha, mother of Aiman

The collaboration between MERF and the EPI team not only ensured little Aiman’s protection but also strengthened community trust in immunization services. By combining accurate health information with culturally sensitive communication, health workers were able to reverse vaccine hesitancy within one household and inspire others in the process.

The Gavi-supported immunization initiative in KP continues to reach underserved and high-risk communities through outreach sessions, home visits, and social mobilization. By engaging religious leaders, influencers, and families like Aiman’s, the initiative is helping ensure that no child is left behind.