UNICEF: Over 200,000 Afghan Children at Risk of Deadly Diseases Due to Water Contamination

UNICEF has raised the alarm about a potential health catastrophe in eastern Afghanistan, where over 212,000 children are exposed to life-threatening diseases due to contaminated water and damaged sanitation infrastructure.

In a statement posted on social media platform X on Thursday, October 15, 2025, UNICEF described the conditions in eastern Afghanistan as a “perfect storm” for a health disaster.

Call for Increased Support
Tajuddin Ivali, UNICEF’s representative in Afghanistan, called on donors to increase their support for the people of Afghanistan, particularly those affected by the recent earthquake.

Impact of the Earthquake
The earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has left approximately 37,000 children under the age of five at serious risk of malnutrition. More than a month after the disaster, the emergency situation in the affected areas persists.

The United Nations had previously warned that without immediate assistance, affected families would be forced to spend the winter without adequate clothing, heating supplies, clean water, and essential child services.

Child Casualties
Save the Children also reported that nearly 1,200 children lost their lives in the recent earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, including over 500 girls and 650 boys.

Conclusion:
UNICEF’s warning highlights the urgent need for humanitarian aid to address the health and sanitation crisis in eastern Afghanistan. The destruction of water and sanitation facilities, combined with the aftermath of the earthquake, has left thousands of children vulnerable to deadly diseases and malnutrition. Immediate international support is crucial to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of affected families.