Four New Polio Cases Reported in Afghanistan Amid Ongoing Virus Circulation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported four new confirmed cases of polio in Afghanistan this week. According to the report, two cases were identified in Nangarhar province, one in Helmand, and another in Herat.

With these new cases, the total number of polio infections in Afghanistan since the beginning of 2026 has reached 11, indicating that the virus continues to circulate in certain areas of the country.

In addition to human cases, the WHO confirmed that 12 positive polio virus samples were detected in wastewater from different parts of Afghanistan during the same week. Detection of the virus in sewage often signifies hidden circulation within the population, even when clinical cases are limited.

Afghanistan remains one of the few countries where polio has not been completely eradicated. Health experts have repeatedly emphasized that unrestricted nationwide access to polio vaccines, widespread public awareness campaigns, and cooperation between the Taliban administration and international health organizations are crucial in preventing further spread of the disease.