Health authorities issue alerts for diphtheria in Morocco and dengue in Chad

Health authorities in Morocco and Chad have issued alerts following the emergence of infectious disease clusters in their respective countries.

In Morocco, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection confirmed diphtheria clusters in the Souss-Massa region, specifically within the Agadir Ida-Outanane prefecture and Chtouka Aït Baha province. One case has been laboratory-confirmed, while eight others are undergoing biological testing. Two fatalities have been reported, including a 12-year-old girl who had not received childhood vaccinations. This marks a significant development as Morocco had been free of diphtheria for over two decades.

In Chad, the Ministry of Public Health and Prevention has warned of dengue fever cases spreading across four provinces: Ouaddaï, Wadi Fira, Sila, and the capital, N’Djamena. Dr. Mbaidedji Dekandji Francine, Secretary of State for Public Health, emphasized the threat posed by Aedes mosquitoes. Health officials are urging the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, long-sleeved clothing, and the elimination of standing water to mitigate transmission.