Morocco is grappling with a measles outbreak that has surged following a decline in vaccination rates. Measles, a highly contagious disease, had nearly been eradicated in the country but has resurged as immunization coverage dropped, largely due to vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation.
In Harhoura, a coastal town near Rabat, 13-year-old Salma and her younger brother Souhail are receiving their second measles vaccine after a school campaign revealed they had missed their doses. Their grandmother, Rabia Maknouni, explained that the family was unaware of the gap in their vaccinations until the outbreak raised concerns.
Since late 2023, more than 25,000 cases and 120 deaths have been reported. Health authorities have launched a large-scale vaccination drive, checking the immunization status of over 10 million schoolchildren since October.
Despite efforts, only half of those needing a booster had received one by early March. The country aims for 95% coverage to achieve herd immunity by the end of March.
Vaccine hesitancy has been linked to misinformation, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, with some believing false claims that the measles vaccine is connected to the COVID vaccine. Public health officials have responded with awareness campaigns, particularly in schools, to counter these myths.
Moroccan authorities acknowledge progress but face challenges in overcoming the ongoing influence of the global anti-vaccine movement, which has contributed to the decline in vaccination rates both locally and internationally.
