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16 Sep 2024 | 03:19 PM UTC

Morocco: Elevated measles activity reported nationwide in September /update 1

Elevated measles activity reported nationwide in Morocco in September. Obtain vaccination; use basic health precautions.

Warning
health
MAR

Health officials have reported elevated measles activity in Morocco, with an additional 1,130 cases reported Aug. 16-Sept. 8, bringing the total case count to 11,334 cases (4,091 confirmed) since Jan. 1. This is compared to no cases reported for 2023. The outbreak is nationwide, with all 12 regions of the country affected. All age groups are affected. Health officials are addressing the nationwide measles outbreak with vaccination campaigns, public awareness efforts, and targeted outreach to remote regions and villages. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 16.

Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.

Over the past five years, Morocco has maintained a 99 percent measles-containing (MCV1) vaccination coverage among one-year-olds, exceeding WHO's recommendation of 95 percent to prevent wider public transmission. In previous years, Morocco reported roughly 12 cases in 2019, 5 cases in 2020, no cases in 2021, and 6 cases in 2022.

Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and individuals with a weakened immune system.

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