During a government meeting on Thursday, Health Minister Amin Tahraoui revealed that the nationwide campaign aims to vaccinate 10.57 million children, including 3.04 million under the age of five, 525,840 in preschool, and 3.83 million in primary school. Meanwhile, 1.98 million middle school students and 1.19 million high school students were included in the initiative as of February 3.
As part of a multi-pronged strategy to contain the disease, authorities have extended and expanded the national vaccination campaign, in addition to implementing a catch-up immunization program for unvaccinated children.
Morocco currently holds a reserve stock of 1.58 million doses of the measles vaccine, according to Tahraoui’s report to the government, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch.
To reinforce epidemiological surveillance, the ministry has deployed rapid intervention teams in high-risk areas, intensified health monitoring, and ensured the availability of essential medicines and medical supplies for immediate care. Additionally, nationwide awareness campaigns have been launched to boost vaccination rates, while partnerships with various health sector stakeholders are being activated to ensure a comprehensive response.
Earlier this week, a coalition of pediatric health associations in Morocco recommended that children receive two doses of the measles vaccine instead of just one.
According to a statement obtained by Hespress, a single dose provides 80% immunity, whereas a second dose increases protection to 98%. The coalition also noted that most fatalities linked to measles occurred among unvaccinated individuals, with 2% of deaths recorded in those who had only received one dose, reinforcing the necessity of a two-dose regimen.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.