Morocco faces a measles outbreak after vaccination rates declined due to misinformation. The outbreak prompted over 10 million schoolchildren’s vaccination checks since last October, with more than 25,000 reported measles cases. Authorities are combating misinformation through awareness campaigns while striving to increase vaccination coverage amid fears stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Morocco is currently navigating a measles outbreak that reflects declining vaccination rates, previously nearly non-existent in the country. The outbreak has been exacerbated by vaccine misinformation, with authorities emphasizing the need for vaccinations in communities, particularly in Harhoura, where families like that of 13-year-old Salma and her brother Souhail sought preventive care only after school campaigns highlighted their incomplete vaccinations. Their grandmother expressed concern and surprise about their unvaccinated status.
Measles, transmitted through respiratory droplets, poses serious health risks, including pneumonia and brain inflammation. Despite its severe repercussions, vaccination rates have diminished in recent years, largely fueled by persistent misinformation from the Covid-19 pandemic. Moroccan officials have initiated campaigns to counter these inaccuracies in an effort to boost vaccination rates and control the outbreak.
Since October 2022, over 10 million schoolchildren have had their vaccination status reviewed, according to Mourad Mrabet of the National Centre for Public Health Emergencies. As of late 2023, Morocco has registered over 25,000 measles cases and 120 fatalities, alarming not only the nation but also France, marking the epidemic at “historic levels”, prompting health agencies to advise travelers to ensure their vaccinations are current.
Authorities assert that new case numbers are declining, yet the health ministry indicated that only approximately half of children needing boosters had received them by early March. Government spokesman Mustapha Baitas pointed to the spread of misinformation as a significant factor in vaccine hesitancy. The U.S. has also witnessed a downturn in vaccination rates, showcased by tragic incidences where unvaccinated individuals succumbed to measles.
In light of this dilemma, Moroccan health officials launched awareness initiatives, particularly in schools, emphasizing the significance of immunization. Imane El Kohen of the education ministry highlighted misinformation, such as claims that the measles vaccine is merely an additional Covid vaccine dose. Nurse Hasna Anouar noted a pre-pandemic lack of vaccine resistance and the increased anxiety surrounding vaccinations among parents, necessitating personal discussions to clarify the necessity of immunizations.
Health rights activist Ali Lotfi attributed the decline in vaccination rates to fears stemming from lockdowns and potential contamination in healthcare facilities, while expressing concern that insufficient government action failed to address the resulting backlog of vaccinations.
In summary, Morocco’s measles outbreak highlights significant challenges due to declining vaccination rates and pervasive misinformation. Despite proactive measures and vaccination campaigns, misconceptions regarding vaccines remain a primary obstacle to achieving herd immunity. Ongoing education and outreach efforts are crucial in combating fears surrounding vaccinations and improving public health outcomes.
Original Source: www.nbcrightnow.com
