Kabul: The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning that Afghanistan is experiencing a severe health catastrophe because 22 million people are in need of help and funding gaps have closed. According to Khaama Press, mass refugee returns and clinics pose a danger of overburdening already strained systems.
With over 22 million of its 46 million citizens in desperate need of help, the WHO has cautioned that Afghanistan is experiencing a worsening humanitarian catastrophe. The nation's health system, which was already weak, is now on the verge of breaking.
According to its most recent report, which was published on Thursday, just 24% of the more than 16 million Afghans who have been selected for life-saving help this year have received it. The necessary funds have been obtained. Millions have been left without access to essential assistance because of the scarcity.
Over 420 healthcare facilities have been closed due to the financial crisis, leaving around 3 million people without access to vital medical care. These limitations have had the greatest impact on vulnerable populations, such as women and children.
The WHO emphasized that severe risks are posed by maternal and child health issues, widespread malnutrition, and disease epidemics like measles and polio. Furthermore, the humanitarian crisis is made worse by the growing mental health issues that are plaguing significant portions of the Afghan population.
Afghanistan is also preparing for significant migrant returns, which is adding more strain. The study projects that in 2025, more than a million people will return from Pakistan and as many as two million will come from Iran. According to the Khaama Press story, over 92% of the 8,36,000+ Afghans that have returned so far have come from Iran.
The impending crisis highlights the detrimental impact that insufficient international financing is having on Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis. Unless prompt assistance is provided, millions may die avoidable deaths from hunger, disease, and inadequate healthcare.
According to Khaama Press, the WHO has urged the international community to increase its aid contributions, warning that failure to act will exacerbate suffering and destabilize an already vulnerable nation.
