Polio Cases Increase in Afghanistan: WHO Reports Four New Infections

The World Health Organization has reported four new cases of polio in Afghanistan, with these cases identified in the provinces of Kunar, Nuristan, Farah, and Helmand. The total number of polio cases this year has reached 23.

World Health Organization: Four New Polio Cases in Afghanistan

In its latest report, the World Health Organization announced that four new positive cases of polio (poliomyelitis) have been detected in Afghanistan this week. These cases were reported from the districts of Dangam in Kunar, Kamdish in Nuristan, as well as from Farah and Lashkar Gah in Helmand.

Parents’ Concerns for Their Polio-Affected Children

Ayesha, a mother of a 14-year-old polio patient, has expressed deep concern over her daughter’s condition and is calling for increased support for her treatment. Mustafa, father of another affected child named Limeh, noted that his daughter’s health was good at birth but has deteriorated over time, prompting him to seek assistance from the Ministry of Public Health.

Awareness and Vaccination: Key Strategies Against Polio

Dr. Ghulam Haider Rafifi, a pediatric specialist and one of the founders of the polio vaccination program in Afghanistan, emphasized that a lack of public awareness is one of the factors contributing to the rise in polio cases. He urged for the acceleration and expansion of vaccination and awareness programs to combat the disease.

He added, “Children must be vaccinated at all stages to prevent further infections.” According to Dr. Rafifi, access to clean water and sanitation are also essential components in eradicating polio.

Worrying Statistics

With the announcement of these new cases, the total number of polio-affected children in Afghanistan has risen to 23 this year. Meanwhile, Pakistan has reported three cases. In 2025, the number of positive polio cases in both Afghanistan and Pakistan reached 52.

Both Afghanistan and Pakistan continue to face significant challenges in combating polio, underscoring the need for serious and coordinated efforts in prevention and control measures.