Diphtheria in Souss-Massa: two family clusters and a sharp reminder on vaccination

This update focuses on Diphtheria Souss-Massa. The Moroccan health authorities have confirmed two limited family clusters of diphtheria in the Souss-Massa region, a strong reminder of how crucial vaccination follow-up is for families in Morocco and for those visiting from abroad.

Diphtheria Souss-Massa: two clusters and two deaths

According to the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, these diphtheria clusters were identified in the prefecture of Agadir Ida-Outanane and the province of Chtouka Aït Baha, in the Souss-Massa region.

Two deaths have been reported in connection with these family clusters. One case has been confirmed by laboratory analysis, while eight other suspected cases are still under epidemiological investigation and biological confirmation.

Initial findings indicate that the children involved were either never vaccinated against diphtheria or had not completed the full course recommended in the national vaccination schedule.

Urgent reminder: check children’s vaccination records

The ministry is urging parents and guardians to immediately review their children’s vaccination records and to complete any missing doses at health centers.

This reminder is particularly relevant for Moroccan families living abroad who are planning an extended stay or a return to the country. Before travelling, it is advisable to:

• check each child’s vaccination record;
• compare vaccination schedules between the host country and Morocco;
• book a medical appointment if doses need to be updated;
• keep a digital copy of vaccination records while travelling.

Diphtheria is covered by Morocco’s national immunization program, which is available in public health centers across the country.

Swift response from health authorities

In response to these diphtheria cases in Souss-Massa, the national epidemic response protocol has been activated. Rapid epidemiological intervention teams from the Souss-Massa territorial health group have been deployed on the ground.

They are conducting active case-finding to detect any additional infections, and have identified and monitored people who were in contact with the confirmed or suspected cases.

These contacts have received preventive antibiotic treatment and vaccination, in line with existing health measures.

A global context of diphtheria resurgence

The ministry notes that the detection of these cases in Souss-Massa comes against a global backdrop of diphtheria reappearing in several countries in recent years.

This resurgence is linked to declining vaccination coverage and the spread of misinformation about vaccines. Authorities stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent diphtheria, a bacterial disease that can be severe, especially in children.

For Moroccans living abroad who travel frequently between their country of residence and Morocco, staying up to date with basic vaccinations is essential. It protects children, facilitates school and medical procedures in Morocco, and helps limit the risk of introducing or spreading vaccine-preventable diseases.

If there is any doubt about vaccination status or which schedule to follow, families are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional, either in Morocco or in their country of residence, and to rely on official information from the Ministry of Health and Social Protection.

For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.

For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.