Ministry of Health urges vaccination as measles cases rise in Morocco

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection reported a rise in measles cases in Morocco on Monday, noting that their deployed monitoring measures and vaccination campaigns successfully contained the spread in two provinces.

As part of their communication efforts, the ministry informs citizens of an increase in measles cases in Morocco, mirroring a global outbreak impacting several regions, particularly in Europe, Africa, and the United States.

Nationally, a significant increase in measles cases has been observed since mid-September, particularly in the Souss-Massa region. The ministry, through its regional and provincial services, immediately took a series of field measures to strengthen epidemiological monitoring and vaccination campaigns. These efforts successfully contained the spread of measles, with recent cases concentrated in the provinces of Taroudant and Chtouka Ait Baha.

The ministry identified a concerning drop in vaccination rates in some urban areas, contributing to the spread of the virus. They reiterate that vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing measles and urge parents to respect the National Immunization Program's vaccination schedule. This program provides two measles doses at nine and eighteen months. They recommend visiting the nearest health facility if experiencing symptoms like fever and rash to receive proper treatment and avoid complications.

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare offers free vaccination services through its network of primary healthcare facilities across the kingdom's prefectures and provinces. The National Immunization Program remains a top priority.