Polio Cases Confirmed in Southern Afghanistan Amidst Ongoing Vaccination Efforts
KABUL, March 7 (Xinhua) – Five new cases of polio have been confirmed in southern Afghanistan over the past year, according to a report from local broadcaster Tolo News, citing the World Health Organization (WHO). The cases were identified in provinces within the southern region of the country, where health authorities continue to face challenges in eliminating the highly contagious disease.
Ongoing Vaccination Campaigns
Afghan health authorities, in collaboration with international partners, are actively conducting nationwide vaccination campaigns to protect children and curb the spread of the poliovirus. These efforts are crucial given Afghanistan’s status as one of the last remaining countries where wild poliovirus transmission persists.
The Importance of Immunization and Community Awareness
Public health experts emphasize the continued require for immunization efforts and increased community awareness to ensure all children receive the polio vaccine. Afghanistan and Pakistan form a single epidemiological bloc for polio transmission, meaning coordinated efforts in both countries are essential for eradication 1.
Recent Polio Eradication Efforts
In April and May of 2025, Afghanistan implemented nationwide polio vaccination campaigns, immunizing over 11 million children under five 2. These campaigns followed earlier, targeted efforts in January and February focusing on high-risk areas in the East, Southeast and South Regions.
Innovative Vaccination Techniques
To overcome challenges in reaching children, Afghanistan’s polio eradication program has begun utilizing needle-free jet injectors, vaccinating over 1.2 million children in the eastern region 3. This new approach aims to build trust and reduce fear associated with traditional needle-based vaccinations.
Global Polio Situation
As of January 2026, nine new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) have been reported globally, with five cases in Afghanistan and four in Pakistan 1. In 2021, Afghanistan reported only four cases of wild poliovirus, the lowest number on record 4, demonstrating the potential for eradication with sustained efforts.
Continued international collaboration and innovative strategies will be vital to achieving a polio-free Afghanistan and ultimately eradicating the disease worldwide.
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