Morocco Intensifies Vaccination Efforts Amid Severe Measles Outbreak

Morocco is facing a severe measles outbreak linked to declining vaccination rates attributed to global anti-vaccine movements. The outbreak has resulted in 120 deaths and more than 25,000 cases. Authorities are ramping up vaccination efforts and launching awareness campaigns to combat misinformation and restore public confidence in immunization.

Moroccan authorities are urgently increasing measles vaccinations as the nation faces an unprecedented outbreak, which has led to 120 fatalities. The rise in cases has been attributed to the global anti-vaccine movement that gained momentum during the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in plummeting vaccination rates. Previously close to being eradicated, measles has made a disturbing resurgence, necessitating swift action from health officials.

In Harhoura, 13-year-old Salma and her nine-year-old brother Souhail are receiving their second measles vaccination at a local clinic. Their grandmother, Rabia Maknouni, noted that their family only became aware of missed vaccine doses following an awareness campaign at school. “We did not know they had not completed their vaccination,” she shared, indicating that the outbreak has spurred concern among parents.

Measles is an exceptionally contagious disease that spreads via respiratory droplets and can remain airborne for up to two hours. It manifests with fever, respiratory issues, and rashes, and can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and brain inflammation. Despite its dangers, vaccination rates have decreased, primarily influenced by misinformation proliferated during the pandemic.

In response, Moroccan health officials have prioritized vaccination efforts, checking the immunization status of over 10 million schoolchildren since October. Since late 2023, there have been over 25,000 measles cases reported in Morocco. The French public health agency, observing the situation, described the epidemic as reaching historic levels and recommended travelers verify their vaccination statuses prior to visiting Morocco.

Authorities report a decline in new infections recently and are committed to proceeding with vaccination campaigns until late March, aspiring to achieve a 95-percent vaccination cover for herd immunity. However, it is acknowledged that about half of those needing a booster shot had not received it as of early March. Government spokesman Mustapha Baitas indicated that misleading information perpetuated fear regarding vaccinations, contributing to the ongoing crisis.

To counter the spread of misinformation, Moroccan officials have initiated awareness campaigns in schools, focusing on the importance of vaccination. Imane El Kohen, from the education ministry, addressed misconceptions, including the false assertion that the measles vaccine is equivalent to receiving a fourth Covid vaccine dose. Health professional Hasna Anouar noted that prior to the pandemic, there was minimal resistance to standard childhood vaccinations, which has shifted as some parents now exhibit anxiety towards vaccinations.

Health rights advocate Ali Lotfi attributed the drop in vaccination rates to pandemic-related lockdowns, which heightened fears of contamination in healthcare settings, impacting routine care and immunization efforts.

In summary, Morocco is combating a significant measles outbreak significantly exacerbated by the influence of global anti-vaccine sentiment. With vaccination rates in decline, authorities are intensifying efforts to educate the public and promote immunizations to restore herd immunity. The proactive measures and awareness campaigns are essential to reverse the current trend and safeguard public health.

Original Source: www.france24.com