Morocco reports diphtheria clusters in Souss-Massa region

The Moroccan Ministry of Health and Social Protection has reported two limited family clusters of diphtheria in the Souss-Massa region, specifically within the Agadir Ida-Outanane prefecture and the Chtouka Ait Baha province.

One case has been laboratory-confirmed, while eight other cases are currently undergoing investigation and laboratory testing, including two reported deaths. Data indicates that the affected children had either not received the diphtheria vaccine or had not completed the recommended vaccination doses.

In response, rapid epidemiological response teams from the Souss-Massa Territorial Health Group have activated emergency protocols. These measures include conducting epidemiological investigations, actively searching for additional cases, tracing contacts, and providing preventive antibiotic treatment and vaccinations. The Ministry emphasized that vaccination remains the primary method of prevention and urged parents to ensure their children's vaccination records are up to date.