Morocco launches urgent vaccination drive amid rising measles cases

Tuesday 04 February 2025 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco launches urgent vaccination drive amid rising measles cases

In response to a significant measles outbreak, Morocco's Government Council is set to convene Thursday to address the growing public health concern. The outbreak, which began in September 2023, has resulted in 25,000 cases and 120 deaths.

A nationwide school vaccination campaign is currently underway, targeting students under 18 years of age. The Ministry of Education has directed school administrators to collaborate with health services and prepare appropriate facilities for the vaccination process, while educators and administrative staff have been asked to support coordination efforts.

The government's response includes multiple initiatives launched in recent months. On October 28, 2024, authorities initiated a "catch-up vaccination campaign" to boost immunization rates among adults who missed childhood vaccinations. Additionally, a surveillance and monitoring system has been established across 12 provincial emergency health centers to provide real-time outbreak data.

Minister of Health and Social Protection, Amine Tahraoui, is expected to deliver a detailed report on the situation. Mohamed El Youbi, Director of Epidemiology and Disease Control at the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, has emphasized the disease's rapid spread and called for swift action.

The response effort involves coordination between multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Interior. These departments are working together to ensure effective vaccination delivery for both children under 18 and individuals who have been exposed to measles patients.