Moroccan authorities are intensifying measles vaccinations in response to a significant outbreak linked to the global anti-vaccine movement, resulting in 120 deaths. The vaccination coverage has decreased, causing concerns about health misinformation and public fear. Measures are being implemented to inform the public and increase vaccine acceptance.
Moroccan authorities have increased measles vaccinations significantly in response to a severe outbreak, which has resulted in 120 fatalities. They attribute this epidemic to misinformation linked to the global anti-vaccine movement exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Vaccination rates, which had previously led to the near eradication of measles, have declined, allowing the disease to resurge.
In Harhoura, a town near Rabat, a 13-year-old girl named Salma and her nine-year-old brother Souhail awaited their second measles vaccine dose. Their grandmother, Rabia Maknouni, noted they learned about missed vaccine doses through an awareness campaign at school, prompting parental concern due to the outbreak. Measles, which is highly contagious, causes severe health issues such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and can lead to death.
To combat the outbreak, Moroccan health authorities have intensified immunization efforts, checking the vaccination status of over 10 million schoolchildren since October. More than 25,000 measles cases have been reported, and vaccinations are ongoing to achieve a herd immunity target of 95%. However, only about half of children needing a booster had received one by early March.
The health ministry has recognized that misinformation fosters public fear of vaccines, with government spokesman Mustapha Baitas citing “false information” as a significant contributing factor. The ongoing resurgence of measles in other regions, such as the United States, further underscores the urgent need for increased vaccination acceptance and strategies against vaccine hesitancy due to concerns stirred by public health crises.
Moroccan health officials have initiated awareness campaigns in schools to dispel myths about the measles vaccine, which some mistakenly believe is related to Covid-19 vaccination. Nurse Hasna Anouar indicates that vaccine resistance was negligible before the pandemic, emphasizing the need for patient dialogue to clarify the importance of immunizations. Activist Ali Lotfi adds that disruptions during lockdowns and the pandemic have contributed to the decline in vaccination rates.
In summary, Morocco is currently facing a critical measles outbreak largely attributed to misinformation spurred by the global anti-vaccine movement. The authorities are proactively increasing vaccination efforts while combating public hesitancy due to generated fears. Despite recent progress in vaccination campaigns, challenges remain in reaching herd immunity, indicating a pressing need for continued education and awareness.
Original Source: www.france24.com
