Rabat – Morocco’s Ministry of Health announced today a steady decrease in the number of new measles cases, locally known as “Bouhmroun”, for the fifth consecutive week.
The ministry attributed this positive news to ongoing efforts to limit the spread of the viral disease.
Between February 24 and March 2, the number of cases dropped by 13%, with 2,481 cases recorded to date.
The number is added to the 14.9% decrease observed in the previous week with 2,863 reported cases, according to the ministry.
“This notable improvement is the result of the great efforts made by healthcare professionals in all regions of the Kingdom, effective coordination among all stakeholders, and increased citizen participation in catch-up vaccination campaigns, as part of the national vaccination status verification campaign,” the statement reads.
The Moroccan ministry also announced its decision to extend the vaccination campaign until March 28, to ensure that all families have access to essential vaccines.
“Despite the remarkable decrease in the number of cases recorded nationwide, vigilance remains crucial,” the ministry warned, acknowledging the disparities observed between provinces in terms of vaccination coverage.
It also reiterated its call to all citizens to engage in the national efforts to combat measles, reminding them of the importance of vaccination as an effective way to prevent the disease and its complications
Health Minister Amine Tahraoui said last December that Morocco had recorded 19,515 cases of Bouhmroun since October 2023.
The minister noted that the disease also claimed 107 lives to date, accounting for 0.55% of the reported cases.
Half of the fatalities involved children under 12, the minister said, acknowledging the vulnerability of younger populations.
