Najia Alemi and Her Efforts to Eradicate Polio

Kunduz, Afghanistan – Najia Alemi, a dedicated vaccinator, strides with unwavering determination and a sincere smile through the dusty streets of Kunduz city’s first district, carrying out her vital mission: protecting children’s futures from the crippling poliovirus.

Wearing a black hijab and carrying a vaccine box on her shoulder, she visits the old Mandawi area every day to vaccinate children and protect them from polio.

 

A Passion for Children’s Health: From Education to Action

Najia, a graduate of the midwifery program at the Ahmad Shah Baba Institute in Kunduz, has always harbored a desire to work toward the prevention of diseases, especially polio.

She said, “Our teachers always told us that prevention is better than cure. This phrase changed the course of my life.”

 

A Workday with Najia

Najia begins her mission before sunrise. She believes that early morning is the best time to meet with household elders, as parents are usually at home during this time.

She approaches the door of the first house and respectfully knocks. A mother, holding her child in her arms, opens the door. Smiling warmly, Najia says, “The polio vaccine can protect your child from paralysis. These drops not only safeguard their health but also secure the future of our community.”

The mother, initially skeptical, softens after Najia’s calm and convincing words and allows her two-year-old daughter to be vaccinated.

 

Najia Alemi, a dedicated vaccinator, strides with unwavering determination and a sincere smile through the dusty streets of Kunduz city’s first district, carrying out her vital mission: protecting children’s futures from the crippling poliovirus. © Polio Free Afghanistan/ 2024/ Raqiba Hamidi

 

Achievements and the Hope for a Polio-Free Community

Working in the streets of Kunduz is not without its challenges. Speaking about misconceptions and rumors, Najia says, “Some families refuse the polio vaccine, so I have to visit them multiple times and engage in conversations to address their concerns.”

She also highlighted the difficult weather conditions that occasionally make her mission more challenging. Yet, her love for children and commitment to their health give her the strength to persevere.

Najia proudly reflects on her three years of effort, stating, “So far, I have vaccinated hundreds of children and educated more than 20 families about the importance of vaccination. Every time I see another child protected from polio; I feel that I’ve taken a small but impactful step for my community.”

Her message to parents is simple yet profound: “The polio vaccine safeguards children’s health. Let’s work together to ensure no child is deprived of this blessing of good health.”

 

The Narratives of Parents and Religious Scholars

Najia’s efforts go beyond administering vaccines to children. She has played a pivotal role in changing family mindsets, reducing negative perceptions about vaccines, and earning the trust of her community.

Ghulam Gul, a resident of Kunduz city, says, “I used to think the polio vaccine was useless, but when Najia patiently answered my questions and addressed my concerns, my perspective changed. Now I confidently vaccinate my child.”

Zainab, a mother of three children under five, says, “Due to misinformation, I did not vaccinate my children, but Najia patiently provided me with accurate information and persuaded me. Now I understand that vaccination is essential for children’s health.”

Mawlawi Abdullah, a religious scholar who supports the polio vaccine, states, “Najia helped us understand that the polio vaccine poses no harm. From an Islamic perspective, it is not only permissible but also a humanitarian and Islamic duty.”

 

The Unsung Hero of Kunduz

Through her dedication and courage, Najia Alemi is bringing significant changes to her community.

She not only stands against misconceptions but also serves as a bridge between knowledge, religion, and community needs. Her efforts demonstrate that even small actions can have a profound impact on the future of a community.

This silent hero hopes that one day her community will be free from the threat of polio and that no child will ever suffer from paralysis again.

Raqiba Hamidi, Polio Free Afghanistan