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Rabat – The Ministry of Health and Social Protection in Morocco sounded the alarm over a surge in measles cases, urging citizens to receive necessary vaccinations.
In a statement released on Monday, the ministry revealed a concerning uptick in measles infections. The ministry attributes the rise to global trends of epidemic outbreaks, particularly prevalent in Europe, Africa, and the United States.
The ministry highlighted a significant increase in measles cases since mid-September, with the Souss-Massa region particularly hard-hit.
If untreated, measles can cause severe complications such as blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis. The disease has fatality rates ranging from 0.1% in industrial countries to 15% in developing countries
However, the ministry says that it has taken swift action to fight the spread of the disease, with targeted measures implemented in the provinces of Taroudant and Chtouka Ait Baha.
Field investigations conducted by health authorities uncovered a troubling decline in vaccination demand in several urban areas, contributing to the virus’s propagation and the emergence of localized outbreaks.
Emphasizing the critical role of vaccination in preventing infectious diseases, including measles, the ministry urged parents to adhere to the National Immunization Program’s schedule.
The schedule recommends administering two doses of measles vaccine at the ninth and eighteenth months of a child’s life.
In addition, the ministry highlights the importance of seeking medical attention at the first sign of measles symptoms, such as a skin rash and fever, to receive prompt treatment and prevent complications.
As part of its response strategy, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection reiterated its commitment to providing free vaccination services through its network of primary healthcare facilities across the country.
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