Analysis
Multilingual posts on Facebook and X are resurrecting the claim that poliomyelitis outbreaks were caused by pesticides like arsenic and DDT, not a virus. Advocates cite a book (Dissolving Illusions) and claim polio “disappeared” when spraying stopped, implying vaccines played no role. Spanish language threads and US influencers share old photos of crop spraying to bolster the theory. The narrative dismisses virological evidence of poliovirus and undermines the reason for immunization.
Recommendations
Provide clear explanations that polio is a contagious viral disease proven through virus isolation and transmission studies. Note that pesticide bans did not coincide with the dramatic drop in polio cases; vaccinations did. Pair this messaging with visuals showing declining case numbers postvaccination to counter the false correlation and reassure that today’s vaccines are extensively tested.