Mothers and doctors in Faryab province say that despite persistent fears and rumors among families, public awareness about the polio vaccine has grown. Many people now understand how crucial vaccination is and are actively working to protect their children from this paralyzing disease. These mothers and doctors urge families who still oppose the polio vaccine not to put their children’s future at risk. They encourage parents to visit health clinics and take part in public vaccination programs to ensure their children remain healthy and do not face a life of preventable paralysis.
Recently, the Taliban Ministry of Public Health, in partnership with international organizations, launched the 2026 polio vaccination sub-campaign. According to the Taliban, this round reached about 3.7 million children under five across 172 districts in 18 provinces, covering the central, southern, eastern, western, southeastern, northern, and northeastern regions of the country.
Health officials in Faryab and Badghis provinces announced that the vaccination campaign in these districts will run from February 9 to 12, 2026. They urged parents to recognize the importance of the program and bring their children to health centers for the polio vaccine to prevent possible paralysis.
Zarmeena, a breastfeeding mother in Faryab, shares: “I vaccinate my children against polio every year, and I am grateful to UNICEF for their services. Just two drops of the vaccine have kept my children healthy. I hope organizations like UNICEF get more support so our children can stay healthy.”
Roqia, a health worker, adds: “People show more interest in vaccination than they did before and understand its importance better. Now, parents take the initiative to vaccinate their children and cooperate fully with health teams.”
A doctor in Faryab reflects on the past: “Polio used to be one of the most frightening diseases. Families watched helplessly as healthy children became paralyzed. Many lived with physical disabilities their entire lives because they lacked awareness and access to vaccines.”
He continues: “Today, we know polio is preventable. The polio vaccine is the simplest and most effective way to protect children. House-to-house campaigns and education from health workers, teachers, and religious leaders have helped families understand that just a few drops of the vaccine can save their child’s future.” He warns that fear, rumors, and misconceptions in some areas still prevent families from vaccinating their children, and without proper awareness, these fears can block sound decision-making.
The doctor notes that the situation has improved. Most families now understand that the polio vaccine is safe and essential. He emphasizes: “Polio is not just a health issue; it is a human and social responsibility. Every child vaccinated brings us closer to a healthier society. If families, community leaders, and experts work together, we can build a future where no child suffers from polio.”
According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, Afghanistan recorded two positive polio cases last year: one in Bala Murghab district, Badghis province, and the other in Helmand province. At the same time, the Taliban Ministry of Public Health reported nine cases nationwide.
Afghanistan and Pakistan remain the only countries where the polio virus has not been completely eradicated. Despite extensive vaccination campaigns, the disease continues to pose a serious threat to children’s health in both countries.
Earlier, Health Policy Watch reported that even with a drop in polio cases, ongoing transmission in Afghanistan and Pakistan still threatens global eradication efforts. Vaccination challenges in these countries put complete elimination at risk. The report, citing the World Health Organization, confirms that polio remains a public health emergency of international concern.
“Polio-Free Afghanistan” highlighted that weak health services, lack of awareness, illiteracy, high population density, widespread diarrheal diseases, and low vaccination coverage in Afghanistan and Pakistan all contribute to the continued spread of the virus.
You can read the Persian version of this report here:
واکسین پولیو؛ خانوادهها با غلبه بر شایعات کودکان شان را از فلج شدن نجات دهند
