The Ministry of Health and Social Protection continues its efforts to curb the spread of measles, known locally as “Bouhmerron,” following the launch of a national vaccination campaign. The campaign, which began on October 17, 2024, aims to catch up on immunizations for children under the age of 18 after a decline in vaccination rates in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Dr. chafiqa Ghazoui responsible for child health and the communication and media unit at the Regional Directorate of Health and Social Protection in the Fes-Meknes region, the pandemic led to a noticeable decline in vaccination uptake, resulting in a gradual decrease in collective immunity between 2021 and 2023. This decline contributed to the resurgence of preventable diseases, with measles being one of the most prominent.
Dr. Ghazoui explained that measles is one of the most contagious diseases due to its rapid transmission among individuals, leading to initial outbreaks that later expanded.
She emphasized that vaccination against measles is the most effective way to fight this dangerous viral disease, assuring that the vaccine is safe and freely available at all health centers across the kingdom. While mild side effects such as a slight fever or skin rash may occur, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh these symptoms.
Dr. Ghazoui also mentioned three key situations requiring vaccination: infants and children are vaccinated at 9 and 18 months according to the national vaccination schedule. If children miss the recommended doses, they can catch up with the vaccine. In case of a confirmed measles infection in any individual, their family members and close contacts are vaccinated to prevent further spread of the virus.
source : fesnews media