Polio in Afghanistan: a systemic review on eradication interventions and challenges

Abstract

After the Global Polio Eradication Initiative was established, the global incidence of polio decreased by 99 percent. However, from a global perspective, the number of polio cases in Afghanistan is still increasing, therefore more attention should be brought to the issue of polio eradication in Afghanistan. This article is set out to revisit and analyze the interventions and challenges of polio eradication in Afghanistan. Data in the article are obtained from various academic journals and official public health websites. After reviewing the research results of public health experts throughout the years, it is evident that despite using multiple intervention measures in the eradication process, more effort is needed to address the challenges that are specific to different areas of Afghanistan. In the recent future, more cases of polio are expected due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, public health workers must increase the intensity of polio surveillance in Afghanistan and ensure that there are sufficient vaccines in stock when house-to-house vaccination begins again.