Morocco Reports Decrease in Measles Cases Amid Vaccination Efforts

The Moroccan Ministry of Health announced a steady decrease in measles cases, with a 13% decline reported last week. The decrease is attributed to effective vaccination campaigns and public engagement. The vaccination campaign is extended until March 28, and continued vigilance is encouraged due to disparities in vaccination rates across provinces.

Rabat – The Ministry of Health in Morocco has reported a continuous decline in measles cases, locally referred to as “Bouhmroun,” marking the fifth consecutive week of reduction. This improvement is attributed to targeted efforts aimed at curbing the disease’s spread. Between February 24 and March 2, a 13% drop was recorded, resulting in a total of 2,481 cases to date, following a prior decrease of 14.9% with 2,863 cases reported the previous week.

The ministry stated, “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.” In response to the positive trend, the vaccination campaign has been extended until March 28 to maximize access to essential vaccines for families.

Despite the significant reduction in cases, the Ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance, noting uneven vaccination coverage across different provinces. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in the national initiatives against measles, with reminders of vaccination as a key preventative measure against potential complications.

Health Minister Amine Tahraoui highlighted that Morocco had recorded a total of 19,515 cases of Bouhmroun since October 2023. He also reported that the disease has resulted in 107 fatalities, reflecting a mortality rate of 0.55% among reported cases, with a substantial portion of the deaths involving children under 12, underscoring their increased vulnerability.

In conclusion, Morocco’s continued decrease in measles cases showcases the effectiveness of health initiatives and citizen engagement in vaccination efforts. While the decline is promising, the Ministry of Health emphasizes the need for sustained vigilance and participation in vaccination programs, particularly concerning the vulnerable population of children.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com