KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – Malaria cases in Afghanistan surged by more than 21% in August, with nearly 13,000 infections recorded nationwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in its latest update, warning that the country’s fragile health system is struggling to cope.
The UN health agency, in its report released Monday, recorded 12,897 malaria cases in August, noting a gradual increase in infections since April. The rise comes as Afghanistan grapples with a crippled healthcare system, limited resources, an influx of refugees from neighboring countries, and recurring natural disasters.
While malaria is on the rise, WHO reported a decline in other infectious diseases compared to July. Acute respiratory infections (pneumonia) remained the deadliest illness, causing 142 deaths in August, with more than 68,000 new cases recorded.
The agency also recorded 20,721 cases of acute watery diarrhea with dehydration, including 11 deaths; 4,993 measles cases with 17 deaths; and 166 new cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, which claimed 16 lives. Dengue fever and COVID-19 were also detected, with 273 and 208 cases respectively, though no deaths were recorded from either disease.
WHO said the overall disease burden remains “high” and warned that a recent earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has compounded health challenges. The agency urged prioritizing health responses for affected communities, expanding screening, and accelerating prevention efforts against malaria and dengue fever.
Afghanistan’s healthcare system has been in crisis since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Taliban’s oppressive policies, International sanctions and a sharp decline in foreign aid have left millions with limited access to medical care, food, and clean drinking water.
Hundreds of hospitals and clinics nationwide have shut down, while many others continue to operate with minimal staff, scarce supplies, and outdated equipment. By May, at least 442 health facilities had stopped functioning, WHO reported, primarily due to reductions in international aid—especially from the United States—leaving millions without access to medical care.
Restrictions imposed by the Taliban have compounded the crisis, particularly for women and children. Female doctors, nurses, and midwives—who are essential in Afghanistan’s segregated health system—face growing barriers to work. In many rural areas, cultural norms prevent women from being treated by male doctors, leaving countless women and children without care. Health organizations warn that these restrictions could further increase maternal and child mortality rates.
