In a statement, the Ministry stressed that the epidemiological situation of Covid-19 is « normal » and that the « strains detected in Morocco do not represent an additional risk compared with previous variants ».
The Omicron-XBB variant has been among the most widespread strains in the world since 2022, the Ministry pointed out, recalling that Morocco recorded a small third-generation wave during the months of April and May 2023, which lasted eight weeks and was characterized by moderate spread of the Omicron-XBB variant and its sub-lineages, with 12 severe cases and one death during this period.
Furthermore, the same source added, waves of Covid-19 continue to diminish in terms of severity and virulence, thanks to natural immunity and that acquired through vaccination, but also because of the continuing decline in the severity of the variants in circulation.
In addition, the Ministry said that it is closely monitoring the epidemiological situation of Covid-19, both nationally and internationally, noting that no alert has been issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding a new variant of concern. There are currently a number of Omicron sub-variants listed as worrying or under surveillance.
Besides Covid-19, seasonal viruses are currently spreading in Morocco, leading to an increase in cases of acute respiratory infections, notably the seasonal flu virus, noted the same source.
The Ministry therefore recommended that all citizens, especially the chronically ill and the elderly, get vaccinated against seasonal flu, and supplement their vaccination with booster shots against the coronavirus to avoid possible complications in the event of infection, calling on anyone with respiratory symptoms to wear a mask, seek medical attention for appropriate treatment and refrain from contact with others.
The Ministry also urged citizens to verify information with official and reliable sources, concluded the statement.
