A Looming Health Crisis: Measles Outbreak Sparks Concern in Northern Morocco

The measles outbreak in northern Morocco has raised serious alarm, becoming a significant threat to children as cases have surged over the past three months. This alarming situation prompted the regional office of the National Health Union, affiliated with the General Union of Moroccan Workers, to issue a warning about an « imminent health catastrophe. »

In a statement, the health union highlighted that measles poses a grave danger to public health, particularly for vulnerable groups like children. It criticized the lack of immediate action from local health authorities, pointing to weak health system responses and poor crisis planning.

The crisis is exacerbated by severe shortages of essential medical supplies and drugs in healthcare facilities. The pediatric unit at Mohammed VI Hospital in M’diq is struggling with a drastic shortage of staff, relying on just one pediatrician and one nurse to serve the entire district.

According to the union, the number of measles cases has risen sharply: 115 cases in October, 113 in November, and 104 so far in December. These figures are expected to climb further, placing immense strain on the already overstretched healthcare system.

The union has called for urgent government intervention to supply necessary medications and medical equipment, strengthen medical staff, and implement an effective pediatric care system. It also held the local health authorities, particularly the regional health delegate, accountable for this critical situation, urging swift action to prevent further loss of life.