A Person Who Safeguards His Community's Children from Polio

Herat, Afghanistan – In an impoverished and vaccine-skeptical region of western Herat, a 65-year-old man named Noor Mohammad Moradi works quietly yet with unwavering determination to protect children from permanent paralysis.

Moradi, a local representative for the seventh district of Herat, has been accompanying vaccination teams for the past five years to ensure that no child in his community misses out on the polio vaccine.

He considers it his responsibility to raise awareness and encourage families to understand that polio vaccines can secure the future of their children.

The Beginning of a Crucial Duty

In Moradi’s neighborhood, many residents are displaced families from neighboring provinces. These families often face poverty and have low levels of education, making them distrustful of vaccinations. Some refuse vaccines due to traditional or religious reasons. Moradi is well aware of these challenges but remains undeterred. Every time a polio vaccination campaign begins, he stands alongside the vaccination teams, walking door to door with them.

"I saw that many families had misconceptions about the polio vaccine, believing it could harm their children, so I told them that if they don’t vaccinate their children, they risk exposing them to permanent paralysis," said Moradi.

This firm, cautionary message has convinced many families to vaccinate their children.

Moradi, a local representative for the seventh district of Herat, has been accompanying vaccination teams for the past five years to ensure that no child in his community misses out on the polio vaccine

© Polio Free Afghanistan | 2024 | Marzia Frotan

Reducing Obstacles to Vaccination

One of Moradi’s most significant achievements over the past five years has been his success in reducing obstacles to vaccination within his community. Families who initially opposed the vaccine now regularly immunize their children. Through his patience and perseverance, he has transformed misconceptions, convincing families that the polio vaccine is not only harmless but also effective in preventing paralysis in children.

Sima Haidari, who has been working as a vaccinator in the area for the past three years, speaks about Moradi’s impact: "Before Moradi became actively involved, many families didn’t trust the vaccine. Some wouldn’t even open their doors to us, claiming they had no children under five. However, thanks to Moradi’s efforts, this situation has changed."

According to Haidari, public awareness about the importance of the polio vaccine has significantly increased. "Compared to three years ago, about 90 percent of families now recognize the vaccine's importance and regularly immunize their children. While some still have doubts, Moradi is always ready to engage with them and address their concerns."

Stories of Convinced Families

Jamila Barakzai, a mother of two who previously lived in Ghor province and now resides in Herat province, initially refused to vaccinate her children due to a lack of awareness.

"When we moved to Herat, Moradi came to our house and encouraged us to vaccinate our children. He explained that the polio vaccine protects children from permanent paralysis," she recalled.

Now, Barakzai ensures her children are vaccinated during every campaign.

"Moradi changed our perspective. I now understand that the polio vaccine strengthens my children's bodies and protects them from paralysis. If we ever miss a vaccination, Moradi reaches out to the vaccinators to ensure our children receive their vaccines."

Conclusion

Noor Mohammad Moradi is regarded as a hero in his community for his dedication and compassion. Without seeking recognition, he has taken on the responsibility of safeguarding the health of children in his area. His relentless efforts have persuaded many families that vaccination is the only effective way to prevent polio and protect their children's lives.

Despite the challenges, Moradi's determination to continue this vital work has never wavered. He collaborates with vaccinators to safeguard children's futures from paralysis and reminds families that the health of their children is in their hands.

Marzia Frotan | Herat