Afghanistan to Launch National Polio Vaccination Campaign in 2026

The national vaccination campaign against polio is set to commence across Afghanistan in 2026. In this three-day initiative, approximately 12.6 million children under the age of five are expected to be vaccinated…

The Campaign Launch and Its Scope

According to the Afghanistan Polio-Free Initiative, the first round of the national campaign against polio will begin on Monday, April 24, 2026, in various regions of the country. This initiative, which will last for three days, is supported by international health organizations to prevent children from suffering permanent disabilities due to the virus.

Aiming High Amid Climatic Challenges

The campaign aims to reach 12.6 million children under five throughout all provinces, districts, and villages. However, due to the cold weather and difficult terrain in central regions, it has been announced that the program will start with some delays in Bamyan and Daikundi provinces until conditions improve.

Afghanistan and Pakistan: The Last Strongholds of Polio

While nearly all countries around the world have succeeded in eradicating the polio virus, Afghanistan and Pakistan remain the only nations where the disease poses an active threat. Official statistics indicate that in 2025, at least nine confirmed polio cases were reported in various provinces of Afghanistan, raising serious concerns at both national and international levels.

Appeal for Community Cooperation

Health officials have urged parents, community leaders, and religious scholars to cooperate in the successful implementation of this campaign by allowing all eligible children to receive two drops of the vaccine. Experts emphasize that vaccination is the only effective way to break the chain of transmission of this dangerous virus. Mobile vaccination teams will conduct house-to-house visits to ensure that no child is left without this vital service. Coordinating with security forces to protect vaccinators in remote areas is also highlighted as a top priority for this program.