You are reviewing social mobilization data from multiple polio vaccination rounds in KP and notice that a few pockets consistently show high refusal rates despite repeated visits. How would you use data and field feedback to diagnose the root causes and adapt the advocacy and communication plan for those specific pockets?

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VirtualInterview.AI · Accepted Answer

In KP, when I’ve seen persistent refusal pockets, I start by layering the data. I map refusals by street/mohalla over 3–4 rounds, disaggregated by gender of caregiver, age of children, and reason for refusal. In one UC, for example, three clusters were stuck above 25% refusal while the UC average was under 5%.

I then sit with the area social mobilizers and LHWs to validate the numbers and do quick qualitative checks: short household interviews, asking exactly what messages they’re hearing (rumours about fertility, distrust of campaign workers, or simply fatigue from too many rounds). We discovered in one case that Friday sermons and one private school owner were reinforcing myths.

Based on that, we shifted from generic IEC to mosque-focused engagement with specific ulama, added mother-to-mother sessions led by trusted CHWs, and changed our message from “polio campaign” to “protecting your child’s movement.” Within two rounds, refusals in those pockets dropped from 27% to around 8%.

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