Health authorities in Afghanistan have stressed the urgent need for polio vaccination among children returning from Pakistan. The call comes amid growing concerns about virus transmission across borders and the ongoing efforts to eliminate polio in the region.
High-Risk Cross-Border Movement
The Afghan Polio Eradication Program highlighted that returning families—particularly from areas with limited vaccination coverage—pose a risk of reintroducing the virus into vulnerable communities. Officials noted that children under the age of five who miss vaccination at border crossings remain the most exposed to infection.
Appeal to Parents and Communities
Program officials urged all parents to ensure their children receive polio drops immediately upon arrival.
A spokesperson for the program stated, “Every unvaccinated child increases the risk of an outbreak. Border points are not always consistent in coverage, so community vigilance is essential.”
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Ongoing National Campaigns
Afghanistan continues nationwide polio immunization efforts with support from international health partners. The Ministry of Public Health runs regular door-to-door campaigns in rural and urban districts to target hard-to-reach children, including those displaced by conflict.
WHO and UNICEF Support
The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have expressed concern over gaps in border vaccination and pledged technical and financial support for Afghanistan’s eradication drive. Both agencies emphasized the need for stronger coordination between Afghan and Pakistani health authorities.
Final Push for Eradication
With just a few cases reported in recent years, experts believe polio can be eliminated entirely if both countries maintain high immunization rates. Afghan officials have identified returning children as a top priority in this final phase.
Families are strongly encouraged to cooperate with local health teams and ensure their children are vaccinated without delay.
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