(MENAFN- Khaama Press) The World Health Organization has warned of a growing measles outbreak in Afghanistan, urging parents to urgently vaccinate children under five nationwide.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the risk of measles infection in Afghanistan is rising sharply this season and urged parents to vaccinate their children without delay.

In a statement issued on Thursday, November 6, WHO called on families to ensure that all children under five receive the free measles vaccine available at health centers across the country.

The agency said vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the highly contagious disease, which has already caused a rise in deaths among Afghanistan children in recent months.

WHO noted that malnutrition and limited access to healthcare have worsened the outbreak, leaving many children vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles.

Last week, health authorities in Nangarhar province launched a 10-day vaccination campaign as part of nationwide efforts to curb new infections and protect high-risk populations.

Afghanistan has witnessed repeated measles outbreaks in recent years, with health experts blaming declining vaccination coverage, displacement, and weak healthcare infrastructure for the resurgence.

International health officials warn that without sustained vaccination drives, the country risks another major epidemic, further straining an already fragile public health system.

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