Analysis
Accusations that WHO, UNICEF, and governments are hiding data or fabricating records circulated mainly on X and online forums. Posts such as 'WHO hiding vaccine failures' and 'UNICEF data is fabricated' did not always go viral, but they served as amplifiers of other narratives like vaccine failure or falsified records. The bursts of up to 17 posts in 48 hours often coincided with negative news stories, showing how mistrust narratives are opportunistically layered onto ongoing conversations.
Recommendations
Radical transparency is essential: publish simple 'what we know/what we are doing' updates whenever incidents occur. Highlight independent oversight and third-party validation to counter perceptions of cover-up. In Pakistan and Nigeria, mobilize local journalists and community validators to carry trust messages. Messaging should not only deny cover-ups but actively demonstrate accountability and openness.