Thaindian News

UNITED NATIONS (BNO NEWS) – A United Nations (UN) envoy expressed serious concern about the illness that has affected Afghan girls attending school, the UN said Wednesday.

Several girls that are attending school in different parts of Afghanistan have recently faced an uncertain illness, allegedly due to chemical contaminants. Media has reported that dozens of girls have already been hospitalized after suspected gas poisoning.

“Thankfully I understand the children have recovered relatively quickly from their symptoms,” Staffan de Mistura, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative, said. He also noted that, “at this point the investigations have not revealed any conclusion as to the nature of source of these incidents of illnesses.” Blood samples have been sent to be tested outside of the country, since there are no facilities in Afghanistan which can thoroughly test them.

The UN World Health Organization has stepped in, assisting the Ministry of Health with its investigations by providing technical guidance and information, and is also consulting with technical experts on conducting environmental analyses and on testing blood samples. In addition, the UNICEF is providing medication and actively pursuing measures to ensure school safety with the Ministry of Education.

“As the senior UN official in Afghanistan, I have asked all relevant UN entities to remain vigilant in the protection of schools and of all children’s right to education Mistura, who also heads the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, said.

International concern has generated, considering that politically and ideologically motivated attacks against teachers, students and schools are on the rise.