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By Kate Pond, UNICEF Afghanistan
Published on 02 November 2023

In the rural landscapes of Nangarhar Province, Eastern Afghanistan, the fight against polio is gaining momentum, thanks to heightened community awareness and a robust national vaccination campaign. For young Manzoor and Saima, this fight is deeply personal, having both experienced the paralyzing effects of the polio virus.

Manzoor’s Road to Recovery:
At just two-and-a-half years old, Manzoor’s ability to walk was compromised when he was struck by polio, leaving his left leg paralyzed. Today, his family celebrates his remarkable recovery. “Manzoor is our miracle child,” exclaims his uncle, as the young boy navigates the room with ease, a testament to the effectiveness of the medical intervention and care he received.

In a neighboring district, 11-year-old Saima is making strides in her own battle against polio. Despite a lingering favoritism for her right side, the paralysis she once endured is gradually easing. Her family’s swift response to her symptoms and their adherence to the vaccination campaign underscore the pivotal role of community awareness in combating this disease.

Afghanistan remains one of the last strongholds of polio worldwide. Since the beginning of 2023, six children in Nangarhar Province have been diagnosed with the disease. While Saima and Manzoor are on paths to recovery, others have not been as fortunate, highlighting the urgency of eradicating this virus.

A National Effort:
The National Emergency Operations Centre, in collaboration with UNICEF and WHO, is spearheading a vigorous polio vaccination campaign. Last year’s campaign saw 9.4 million children vaccinated, and this year’s target is set at an ambitious 10 million. Complementing these efforts are educational campaigns aimed at mothers and caregivers, illuminating the critical importance of vaccination and early intervention.

While vaccination is paramount, it is not the sole solution. The polio virus thrives in environments lacking proper sanitation and clean water. In rural areas like Nangarhar, the streams that children play in are often contaminated with household waste and raw sewage, providing a breeding ground for the virus.

Looking Ahead:
The road to eradicating polio in Afghanistan is a multifaceted journey, requiring a comprehensive approach that intertwines health and nutrition, clean water and sanitation, community education, and robust vaccination campaigns. The stories of Saima and Manzoor underscore the power of community engagement and the critical need for continued vigilance in the fight against polio. As the national vaccination campaign presses forward, the hope for a polio-free Afghanistan shines brighter, rooted in the strength and resilience of its communities.