UNICEF urges full vaccination as polio persists in Afghanistan

UNICEF said that Polio has no cure but can be prevented through vaccination, urging intensified efforts in Afghanistan.

In a statement posted on Monday, UNICEF said that as long as the poliovirus continues to circulate in Afghanistan, every child under the age of five must receive two drops of the vaccine.

The agency stressed that no child should be missed in immunization campaigns, warning that gaps in vaccination could allow the virus to spread further.

UNICEF called on parents, caregivers, and community leaders to actively support vaccination efforts and ensure that all eligible children are reached.

It added that strong cooperation between families, communities, and health teams is essential to eliminate the disease and protect future generations.

Afghanistan remains one of the few countries where polio transmission has not been fully eradicated, alongside neighboring Pakistan.

Health organizations have faced challenges including insecurity, misinformation, and limited access in remote areas, which have hindered vaccination campaigns.

UNICEF said sustained vaccination efforts and community cooperation are critical to ending polio, warning that any lapse could reverse progress toward eradication.

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