France Warns of Measles Cases Linked to Travel from Morocco

Rabat – French health authorities are urging vigilance and precaution after having registered several cases of measles imported from Morocco since the start of the year.

Officials insist on vaccination, especially for those traveling.

In a statement on February 14, Santé Publique France tallied 13 cases linked to recent travel to Morocco, which totals 39 in 2024 and 2025.

Young adults and children up to five years are most at risk. Of the reported cases, 26 were hospitalized, with 11 reported in January alone.

Health officials also note that nearly all imported cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those unsure of their vaccination status. 

They advise parents to have infants vaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) as early as six months.

For travelers heading to high-risk areas, authorities recommend checking immunization records to prevent further spread.

Morocco is facing a worrying measles outbreak, with health authorities launching a nationwide response and vigilance from the population.

Earlier this month, government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas announced that the Ministry of Health examined the immunization status of nearly 8.8 million children under the age of 18.

Baitas also mentioned that the government and the Ministry of Health have initiated a holistic awareness campaign to stop measles transmission and encourage people to opt for vaccines as a means of prevention against the virus.