Morocco battles measles surge with urgent vaccination drive

Morocco is grappling with a significant surge in measles cases, with more than 20,000 infections and over 116 deaths reported since 2023. Health authorities and experts are raising concerns, emphasizing the critical need for vaccination to curb the spread of the disease.  

A troubling resurgence after years of control

After achieving notable success in controlling measles through a robust national vaccination program, Morocco has faced a sharp increase in cases since September 2023. The country has confirmed over 20,000 infections, including 44 fatalities among children under five. This alarming rise has prompted health specialists to warn of a potential epidemic, though the Ministry of Health has yet to formally declare one.  

In response, the government has initiated a widespread vaccination campaign aimed at mitigating the outbreak. Dr. Said Afif, a pediatrician and President of the Moroccan Society of Medical Sciences, noted that Morocco had previously made remarkable strides in combating measles. Between 2018 and 2019, a national vaccination program reached 11 million individuals aged 9 months to 19 years, achieving a 97% vaccination coverage rate—well above the 95% threshold recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent outbreaks.  

Declining vaccination rates fuel the crisis

However, vaccination rates have declined in recent years, largely due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing healthcare strikes. Dr. Afif emphasized that many parents hold the mistaken belief that vaccination is no longer necessary if a child misses the recommended 18-month window. “This is absolutely false,” he stated. “Anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated, regardless of age, should receive the vaccine, and it is crucial to complete both doses.”  

To address the growing crisis, the Ministry of Health has launched a catch-up vaccination program targeting individuals aged 9 months to 19 years. The Ministry of Education is also playing a role by verifying students’ vaccination records and encouraging parents to ensure their children are up to date. Authorities are urging all parents, even those uncertain about their child’s vaccination history, to take immediate action.  

Vaccination: the only effective solution

Dr. Afif underscored that vaccination remains the most reliable method to control the outbreak and prevent further fatalities. “The measles vaccine has been in use for over 40 years, and it is both safe and highly effective,” he explained. The vaccine protects 98% of individuals who receive both doses, making it a critical tool in halting the spread of the disease.  

He also addressed the dangers of misinformation circulating on social media, which has contributed to vaccine hesitancy. “Claims about the vaccine’s inefficacy or potential dangers are false and harmful. Those spreading such misinformation are exacerbating the current crisis,” he warned.  

As Morocco works to contain the outbreak, health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination, urging families to prioritize their children’s health and safeguard the broader community.