The Southern Highlands Provincial Health Authority (SHPHA) has strongly condemned the recent destruction of medical supplies, including life-saving vaccines, in an incident linked to misinformation about the ongoing polio immunization campaign.
The incident occurred on 16 October at Kumin Elementary School in Mendi, where vaccines and equipment meant for children were destroyed by individuals allegedly acting on false information spread by certain church leaders.
SHPHA Chief Executive Officer Dr Joseph Birisi described the act as a direct attack on the work of health workers and a violation of children’s fundamental right to health.
“This act undermines the tireless efforts of our health workers who are working to stop the transmission of polio and protect every child in the province from vaccine-preventable diseases,”
Dr Birisi said. “We have an idea of those behind this and the radical groups they belong to. We will take action to ensure they are apprehended and face the law.”
He said the immunization campaign is a nationally endorsed public health intervention, based on science and global best practice, and is vital for protecting children from serious and disabling illnesses such as polio.
Dr Birisi also urged faith leaders to use their influence responsibly.
“We respect the role of church and community leaders, but when public messages contradict verified medical guidance and put lives at risk especially those of our youngest and most vulnerable it becomes our duty to respond with clarity and resolve,” he said.
He called on pastors and community leaders to work with SHPHA to promote accurate information and support health initiatives rather than spread fear and confusion.
“Whilst we invite open dialogue and welcome partnership in solidarity and unity, we will not tolerate the deliberate spread of misinformation that endangers public health,” Dr. Birisi said.
The SHPHA reaffirmed its commitment to work with government agencies, faith-based groups, civil society, and communities to ensure all children in the Southern Highlands have access to safe and effective vaccines.