Afghanistan Launches Polio Vaccination Drive Targeting Millions of Children

Afghanistan Launches Ambitious Polio Vaccination drive for 7.3 Million Children

The Ministry of Public Health aims to eradicate polio through a four-day nationwide campaign.

By Archyde Staff Writer
Published: July 21, 2024
Updated: July 21, 2024

KABUL, Afghanistan – A critical four-day polio vaccination campaign kicked off monday across Afghanistan, targeting 7.3 million children under the age of five. The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Public Health, seeks to protect the nation’s youngest population from the debilitating effects of poliovirus.

The campaign is scheduled to run from Monday through Thursday. It will deliver essential anti-polio drops to children in 19 of the country’s 34 provinces, according to Sharafat Zaman Amarkhil, the ministry’s spokesperson.

Amarkhil issued a fervent appeal to community leaders, religious scholars and parents. He urged their active participation and full cooperation with the dedicated polio workers to ensure the campaign’s prosperous implementation.

“The Ministry of Public Health is striving to combat infectious diseases by implementing all preventive measures,” Amarkhil stated. “Through the polio vaccination campaign, we aim to prevent the spread of polio in Afghanistan.”

■

Understanding Polio Prevention

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious viral disease. It primarily affects children under five years old and can lead to irreversible paralysis.Fortunately, polio is preventable through vaccination. The vast majority of polio infections cause no symptoms at all,but a small percentage can cause irreversible paralysis.

Mass vaccination campaigns are the most effective way to stop the transmission of poliovirus. By ensuring high immunization coverage, communities can build herd immunity, protecting even those who are not vaccinated.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Polio Vaccination Campaign

What is the primary goal of the current polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan?

The primary goal is to administer anti-polio drops to 7.3 million children under five years old to protect them from poliovirus.

When is the polio vaccination campaign taking place?

The campaign is running from Monday to Thursday.

Which age group is the campaign specifically targeting?

The campaign is specifically targeting children under the age of five.

How many provinces are included in this vaccination drive?

The campaign is being conducted in 19 out of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces.

Who is being urged to cooperate with the polio workers?

Tribal elders, religious scholars, and parents are being urged to actively participate and cooperate.

What is the Ministry of Public Health’s broader objective in conducting such campaigns?

The ministry’s broader objective is to combat infectious diseases and prevent the spread of polio in Afghanistan.

What are your thoughts on this vital public health effort? Share your views in the comments below!