WHO Alarmed: Is a Dangerous Disease Surge Unfolding Among Afghan Returnees?

Kabul, July 10 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm over a growing public health crisis among Afghan migrants deported from neighboring countries. According to Khaama Press, unsanitary conditions, overcrowding, and limited medical support at key border crossings—especially Islam Qala in Herat Province—have led to a sharp rise in infectious diseases.

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🔬 Top Reported Illnesses Among Returnees

• Upper respiratory infections
• Diarrhea and dehydration
• Scabies
• Suspected COVID-19 cases

Children and the elderly are the most at risk, WHO said, prompting emergency health interventions in coordination with Afghan authorities.

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🩺 WHO’s Emergency Response: What’s Being Done

• Mass health screenings and vaccinations at entry points like Islam Qala and Spin Boldak
• Over 8,700 children received oral polio vaccines
• Over 8,300 individuals got injectable polio shots
• Measles vaccinations for returnee children in high-risk areas
• Mobile health teams deployed at Islam Qala, Spin Boldak, and Torkham for daily checks

So far, 29,000 returnees have been screened or vaccinated, with over 840 individuals treated for infectious symptoms in a short monitoring period.

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🆘 WHO’s Call for Global Support

With the number of deportees rising rapidly, WHO has called for:

• Urgent international funding
• Enhanced medical staffing
• Stronger inter-agency coordination

“Expanded funding and coordinated efforts are urgently needed to prevent large-scale disease outbreaks,” WHO emphasized via Khaama Press.

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