10 common health myths – Debunked with scientific evidence

Health myths are widespread, deeply rooted in culture and increasingly amplified by social media and informal advice. They influence how people use medicines, trust vaccines, choose home remedies and interact with healthcare providers, often leading to delayed treatment, complications and preventable deaths.

This write-up examines 10 common health myths in Pakistan, explains what the science actually says, and offers clear, evidence-based guidance to support safer decisions for you and your family.

 

 Myth – Vaccines cause infertility, disability or serious illness

Misconceptions about vaccines, especially polio and more recently COVID-19, are common in certain parts of Pakistan and often linked to rumours about infertility, “Western” conspiracies or haram (illegal) ingredients.

What does the science say?

Decades of global research and the WHO recommendations confirm that routine childhood vaccines, including polio, measles and others, are safe and highly effective in preventing deadly diseases. Studies in Pakistan show that most vaccine refusals in high-risk areas are driven by misconceptions and rumours rather than real safety concerns. There is no credible scientific evidence that the WHO-approved vaccines cause infertility or long-term disability.

Risks of believing this myth

• Persistent polio transmission in Pakistan, one of the last two endemic countries
• Outbreaks of preventable diseases such as measles and diphtheria
• Severe illness, disability or death in unvaccinated children

Evidence-based guidance

• Follow Pakistan’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) schedule for all children.
• Rely on information from the WHO, UNICEF and national health authorities, not anonymous social media forwards.
• If you have concerns, discuss them with a qualified paediatrician rather than refusing vaccination outright.

 4/10 – To be continued