Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication - Afghanistan, January 2023-September 2024

Since the Global Polio Eradication Initiative began in 1988, wild poliovirus (WPV) types 2 and 3 have been eradicated, and annual polio case numbers have decreased by >99.9%. WPV type 1 (WPV1) transmission remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan, two countries that share a 1,600-mile (2,600-km) border. This report describes immunization and surveillance activities and progress toward polio eradication in Afghanistan during January 2023-September 2024. As of November 1, Afghanistan reported 23 WPV1 cases in 2024, with onset during January-September 30, 2024. During the 3 previous years, 12 WPV1 cases were reported, including six during 2023. In August 2021, the Taliban took control nationwide and allowed increased geographic access for poliovirus vaccination campaigns. Multiple challenges have affected polio eradication activities in Afghanistan, including mandated repatriation of approximately 1 million Afghans by Pakistan beginning in late 2023, the ongoing humanitarian crisis that limits international agency effectiveness, polio program constraints imposed by authorities, and increased restrictions on female participation in vaccination activities. House-to-house vaccination coverage reached 90%-98% of children during June-July 2024. Beginning in 2021, authorities had progressively lifted restrictions on house-to-house campaigns, but abruptly reverted to national restrictions in September 2024. Both nationwide house-to-house activities and strengthening of the routine childhood immunization program would help ensure that every vulnerable child is vaccinated and provide a pathway to polio eradication in Afghanistan.