WHO: Unvaccinated Returned Children in Afghanistan Raise Disease Risks

The World Health Organization reports that numerous children returning to Afghanistan remain unvaccinated, increasing risks of disease outbreaks and threatening public health nationwide.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted that a significant number of children returned to Afghanistan have not received any vaccines, raising serious health concerns.

On Sunday, Febraury 15, WHO reported that through primary healthcare services and identifying returning children, many have now been registered in Afghanistan’s national vaccination system.

Enrollment in the national vaccination system provides children with immunization cards, offering protection against deadly diseases and improving families’ access to broader healthcare services.

Dr. Edwin Ceniza, WHO representative in Afghanistan, emphasized, “With active community engagement and ongoing support for healthcare services, we can ensure no child misses essential care.”

WHO stresses that vaccinating previously unprotected children is critical to preventing dangerous outbreaks, including measles and polio, and safeguarding the most vulnerable populations in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan has faced decades of conflict and displacement, which have disrupted healthcare delivery and left many children vulnerable to preventable diseases.

Humanitarian agencies, including WHO, UNICEF, and local health authorities, have been working to restore vaccination coverage and strengthen Afghanistan’s immunization infrastructure amid ongoing crises.

Ensuring all returning children are vaccinated remains a priority for public health in Afghanistan, requiring coordinated efforts between international organizations, communities, and government health services.

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