Surge in Measles Cases in Afghanistan: A Public Health Concern

Médecins Sans Frontières reports a notable increase in measles cases in Afghanistan, with rising fatalities and hospital admissions. Approximately one child dies from measles daily, highlighting the urgent need for vaccination. MSF has intensified its response to manage increasing patient numbers, while stressing the importance of preventative measures to reduce disease spread.

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has reported a significant increase in measles cases in Afghanistan, particularly in three hospitals since January. Despite measles being endemic in the region, the early surge in cases this year raises serious health concerns. MSF data indicates that approximately one child in Afghanistan has succumbed to measles each day in 2025, with fatalities nearly tripling compared to the same timeframe last year.

Mickael Le Paih, MSF’s country representative, stated, “These are preventable deaths. Measles can be a deadly disease, particularly for children with underlying health conditions such as malnutrition or congenital heart defects.” He emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles, although the immunization coverage in Afghanistan remains low. Targeted community vaccination initiatives in areas impacted by outbreaks could help alleviate pressure on healthcare facilities.

In the first eight weeks of 2025, MSF has attended to 4,799 suspected measles cases across the three primary hospitals. Among these, 25 percent were complicated cases necessitating hospitalization, while 75 percent were less severe, requiring outpatient care. In response to this health crisis, MSF has enhanced its emergency response in Herat, expanding its measles isolation ward significantly and increasing its medical staff and supply of essential medications.

Statistical data shows alarming increases in suspected measles cases throughout the region; for instance, MSF recorded a 180 percent rise in patient admissions at Herat Regional Hospital compared to 2024 and a staggering 369 percent increase at Boost Provincial Hospital. Mazar-i-Sharif Regional Hospital also observed a 35.6 percent increase in cases treated alongside public health officials. Le Paih noted, “We are dedicating additional resources, but we are already running out of space for patients suffering not just from measles, but also from seasonal illnesses.”

MSF currently operates seven projects in various provinces including Bamyan, Helmand, Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif, Kandahar, Khost, and Kunduz, focusing on secondary healthcare services. In 2024, the organization provided extensive healthcare, including over 404,500 emergency consultations and treated more than 13,030 measles patients, among other vital services.

The increase in measles cases in Afghanistan is alarming, with daily child fatalities marking a concerning trend. MSF highlights the preventable nature of these deaths through vaccination and calls for targeted immunization efforts. The healthcare system faces immense pressure with rising patient numbers amid limited resources. Continued efforts to improve vaccination coverage and support hospital resources are essential to manage and mitigate this public health crisis.

Original Source: pajhwok.com