Every Mecca Pilgrim Will Be Vaccinated Against Polio

by Mike Smith · 2009-09-29 12:38:00 UTC
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Rumors that the polio vaccine is a Western plot to sterilize Muslim girls has allowed the viral disease to persist, and it remains endemic in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and regions of Nigeria and India.

During the pilgrimage to Mecca this November, Saudi Arabia won't be taking any risks, forcing all pilgrims to swallow a dose of the vaccine. It's good news for the whole world, espeicially those in conflict zones, where the disease is easily spread due to insufficient vaccinations. UNICEF is working in Pakistan and Afghanistan to safeguard children from the disease which can cause permanent paralysis and try to stop it permanently.

[Photo credit: etobicokesouth]

Mike Smith
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