Measles Outbreak Claims 21 Lives in Afghanistan, Majority Are Young Children

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a troubling rise in measles cases across Afghanistan, with 21 deaths recorded in a single week in April.

The majority of those who died were children under the age of five, highlighting the severe impact of the outbreak on the country’s youngest and most vulnerable population.

Surge in Measles Cases: 6.2% Increase in One Week

Between April 11 and 17, 2025, Afghanistan saw a 6.2% increase in suspected measles cases compared to the previous week. According to WHO data, a total of 4,043 suspected cases were reported during this period, with 21 associated deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.5%. Of these cases, 50.1% were females, and a staggering 73% were children under five years old.

Deadliest Provinces: Helmand, Herat, Kabul Among Hardest Hit

The provinces experiencing the highest number of fatalities include Helmand, Herat, Kabul, Badakhshan, Badghis, Baghlan, Bamiyan, and Jawzjan. These areas are now facing urgent public health challenges as the outbreak continues to spread.

Migrant Returnees Raise Concerns Over Disease Spread

Dr. Sayed Abdullah Ahmadi, a health expert, expressed concern over the role of returning migrants in exacerbating the outbreak. “The return of migrants who had previously gone to neighboring countries and are now coming back home has unfortunately raised greater concerns about the spread of various diseases,” he said. Dr. Ahmadi urged the Ministry of Public Health to establish mobile clinics at all border points to monitor and control disease transmission effectively.

Vaccination Emphasized as Critical Prevention Strategy

Health professionals stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. Dr. Sakhi Yar told TOLOnews, “Vaccination is the only solution. Children must be vaccinated on time, and crowding should be avoided so that sick children do not come into contact with healthy ones.” Public health campaigns are being intensified to encourage timely immunization and reduce transmission risks.

Measles Cases Reach Peak Levels in 2025

WHO statistics reveal that measles cases have steadily increased since the start of 2025, reaching a peak in week 16—significantly higher than in previous years. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced vaccination coverage and public health interventions to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of life.

Summary

The ongoing measles outbreak in Afghanistan poses a serious threat, particularly to children under five. With over 4,000 suspected cases and 21 deaths reported in a single week, health authorities are calling for immediate action. Vaccination campaigns, mobile clinics at border areas, and public awareness are critical to curbing the spread of this deadly disease