Sharp Rise in Seasonal Illnesses Among Children in Herat Amid Soaring Heat

Health officials in Herat have reported a significant increase in the number of children suffering from seasonal illnesses as the heat intensifies. According to them, more than a thousand sick children are admitted daily to Herat Regional Hospital, most of whom are affected by diarrhea and vomiting caused by the heat.

Merois Abedi, head of the pediatric department at Herat Regional Hospital, stated that patients are categorized into three sections based on their health condition. He said 55 to 60 percent of children fall into the green section and return home after receiving outpatient treatment. Nearly ten percent are classified in the red section, while the remaining children are either hospitalized in the yellow section or discharged after examination. At the same time, some patient companions have complained about the lack of facilities and resources at the hospital.

In recent weeks, with rising temperatures in western Afghanistan, cases of seasonal illnesses among children have increased. The shortage of medical supplies, unstable electricity, consumption of unhealthy foods, and negligence by some families are seen as contributing factors to the spread of these diseases. Addressing these issues effectively requires serious attention and practical measures from the Taliban administration’s public health department.