Morocco reports a steady decline in measles cases for the fifth consecutive week, with a recent 13% decrease. Efforts from healthcare professionals, coordination, and public participation are credited for this trend. A vaccination campaign has been extended to March 28, emphasizing the importance of community involvement despite the need for ongoing vigilance against the disease.
Morocco’s Ministry of Health has announced a continued decline in measles cases, known locally as “Bouhmroun,” recording this improvement for five consecutive weeks. The ministry attributes this positive trend to robust efforts aimed at controlling the spread of the disease. From February 24 to March 2, there was a notable 13% decrease in cases, resulting in a total of 2,481 confirmed infections to date. This decrease follows a 14.9% reduction the previous week, with 2,863 reported cases.
The ministry credited this significant improvement to the dedication of healthcare professionals across the Kingdom, effective collaboration among stakeholders, and heightened public participation in catch-up vaccination initiatives. Furthermore, the ministry announced the extension of the vaccination campaign until March 28, ensuring families have access to necessary vaccines.
Despite the encouraging reduction in nationwide cases, the ministry emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance, recognizing the variations in vaccination coverage across different provinces. Citizens are urged to participate in the national campaign against measles, highlighting vaccination as a critical means to prevent the disease and its associated complications.
Health Minister Amine Tahraoui reported in December that Morocco had seen a total of 19,515 cases of Bouhmroun since October 2023. Tragically, the disease has led to 107 fatalities, which represents 0.55% of the total cases, with a concerning half of the deaths occurring in children under the age of 12. The minister reiterated the heightened vulnerability of younger populations to this viral illness.
In summary, Morocco’s ongoing efforts to combat measles have led to a significant decrease in cases for five consecutive weeks, with a 13% reduction noted recently. The health ministry’s initiatives, including the extension of vaccination campaigns and community engagement, are pivotal in sustaining this trend. However, the ministry stresses continued vigilance and participation from the public to ensure the effectiveness of these health measures, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
