Poliomyelitis is a potentially fatal, preventable disease caused by the poliovirus. The virus invades the brain and spinal cord of the infected, causing severe nerve damage and paralysis. The majority of those who infected with the virus show no symptoms, though one in four will experience flu-like symptoms. Paralysis, however, is the most significant of polio symptoms because it is the most fatal. The muscles necessary for respirations are often affected, leading to death. Polioviurs only affects humans and lives in the infected individual’s throat and intestines. It enters through the mouth and spreads through contact with fecal matter, though it can less commonly be transmitted through droplets from the mouth (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017). While polio has been nearly eradicated globally, there are still three countries experiencing endemics, with Afghanistan being one of those countries. International Health Regulations has classified Afghanistan as a state infected with WPV1, cVDPV1, cVDPV3, and there is a potential risk of international spread. As of July 2019, there have been 11 polio cases reported, with 21 total cases in 2018. There have also been two positive environmental samples reported in 2019 thus far (Polio Global Eradication Initiative [PGEI], 2019). The goal of health organizations worldwide is toc eliminate the polio virus in Afghanistan and other endemic countries. 

Target Population: Citizens of Afghanistan, particularly in the southern areas of Afghanistan, as well as the Kunar region