Facebook posts exploit Philippine vaccine fears after toddler's post-jab illness
A Manila mother’s three-year-old son became ill shortly after receiving a measles-rubella shot, prompting viral Facebook claims that the vaccine killed him, though doctors found no connection and the child recovered fully.
Jenette Torres Odena posted a photo of her son who fell sick days after a government-run measles-rubella immunisation. The image quickly spread on Facebook with accusations that the jab caused his condition. Medical professionals examined the child, determined the vaccine was unrelated, and reported his complete recovery. The episode illustrates how anti-vaccine narratives are being amplified online in the Philippines.
Why it matters
Misinformation about vaccines can undermine public health efforts and increase vaccine hesitancy in the Philippines.
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