Kunduz declared Malaria free; vaccination program underway in Nangarhar

Malaria is transmitted by infected mosquitos

Residents and officials from Afghanistan’s northern province of Kunduz told the Pajhwok Afghan News (PAN) today that Malaria has been completely eliminated in the province. PAN reported that over the past 6 months, no positive cases have surfaced. Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is caused by a parasite, and it is a major public health problem in Afghanistan as it threatens the health of millions of people. Afghanistan is prone to malaria due to its climate, poor waste management, and other environmental factors. Residents told PAN that the cases of malaria in Kunduz dropped due to mosquito nets distribution and awareness programs.

In other health news, Afghanistan’s Bakhtar News Agency reported yesterday that a polio vaccination program has started in eastern Nangarhar province. The 3-day program is expected to vaccinate thousands of children under 5 years of age. Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to paralysis and/or even death. While the disease has been eradicated in the western world, it’s still an issue in Afghanistan mostly due to its importation from neighboring Pakistan.

June 24, 2014 · admin · No Comments
Posted in: Health News