UN provides health aid to over 500,000 returnees in Afghanistan
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that from November 2023 to July 31, 2024, health aid organizations provided services to around 578,000 returnees from neighboring countries.
In a report released on Monday, the WHO expressed concern over the rising incidence of infectious diseases, maternal and child health issues, and increased maternal mortality rates in Afghanistan.
According to the WHO report, 46 health aid organizations operated through 746 health centers in 284 districts across 34 provinces, providing medical services to over 666,000 needy Afghans. The organization also highlighted that 17.9 million people in Afghanistan require health assistance, with 52% of them being children.
The WHO emphasized that the influx of returnees from neighboring countries, recent earthquakes, and potential floods have exacerbated health needs in Afghanistan. The organization warned that the risk of outbreaks of acute watery diarrhea, measles, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, COVID-19, pertussis, and malaria poses a significant threat to vulnerable populations.
The report also noted that psychological distress affects half of Afghanistan’s population, with one in five citizens experiencing disruptions in daily functioning due to traumatic events.
Additionally, the WHO reported approximately 866,000 suspected cases of acute respiratory infections with 2,067 deaths, 42,800 suspected cases of measles with 188 deaths, 771 cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever with 63 deaths, and 34,760 suspected cases of malaria with one death across Afghanistan this year.
Previously, the WHO has stated that access to quality healthcare remains a major challenge in Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, the WHO’s latest report underscores the urgent need for increased health support and resources in Afghanistan to address the growing health crisis and improve the well-being of its population amidst ongoing challenges.
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