Recently, a rumor has been circulating in various neighborhoods of Bangui, claiming that using banana peels on the vaccination site prevents skin rashes in children.
This information is false and unfounded, according to health specialists from the Ministry of Health and Population and the WHO, as well as a mother interviewed by AFC.
Verification:
Dr. Valentin Nibanga, head of the Health Promotion Service at the Primary Health Care Directorate, denies this information and explains:
“This is almost a harmful practice. When a child is vaccinated, there is a small wound left, and applying a banana peel can introduce microbes into the child’s body. If these microbes enter the bloodstream, the child could develop a condition called septicemia, which can be fatal. It is best to follow the advice provided by health professionals.”
Aboryot Pulchérie Clémentine, head of the Expanded Vaccination Program (PEV), adds: “When an injection is administered, the needle leaves a wound, so we cannot be sure what is in the banana peel that might come into contact with the wound. This could introduce microbes and cause an infection. If any issues arise, the child should be taken directly to the hospital.”
“As a mother, I would say that this is just an idea some women have, as no health workers have advised me on such a practice,” testified Mawé Vanissa.
According to Augustin Dibert, Health Promotion and Communication Advisor at WHO Central African Republic: “Claiming that banana peels prevent skin rashes after vaccinations is a misconception and has no scientific basis. Here, we cannot assert that banana peels treat skin issues related to vaccination. If there are any reactions, mothers should rather take their children to health facilities.”
It should be noted that all vaccines have temporary side effects that do not harm children’s health. Be cautious of practices lacking scientific support that might pose health risks. In case of skin rashes, the best course of action is to consult health services, according to specialists.
By Boris Zékéma / AFC
This article is produced as part of the AFC-Internews partnership funded by USAID. However, the content does not reflect the partner’s responsibility.
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