Morocco’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection has reported two limited family clusters of diphtheria in the Souss-Massa region, with two deaths among eight suspected cases currently under investigation.
The cases were detected in the prefecture of Agadir Ida-Outanane and the province of Chtouka Ait Baha, as part of the country’s national epidemiological surveillance system, the ministry said in a statement on Monday.
Laboratory tests have confirmed one case, while eight others are undergoing investigation and laboratory testing, including the two fatal cases.
Preliminary information indicates that the children affected by the outbreaks had either not been vaccinated against diphtheria or had not completed the recommended vaccination schedule, according to the ministry.
Following the detection of the cases, health authorities activated the national epidemiological response protocol.
Rapid response teams from the Souss-Massa Territorial Health Group have launched epidemiological investigations, actively searched for additional cases and identified and monitored people who had been in contact with those infected.
Preventive antibiotic treatment and vaccination have also been provided to contacts, in line with established health protocols.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets. It can cause serious complications in some cases, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.
The ministry stressed that vaccination, including completion of the recommended doses and booster shots, remains the primary means of preventing the disease.
It urged anyone experiencing symptoms potentially associated with diphtheria to seek medical attention without delay at the nearest health facility to receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment. People with suspected symptoms should also avoid close contact with others until they have undergone medical assessment.
The ministry also called on parents and guardians to check their children's vaccination records, ensure that any missed doses are administered and adhere to the national immunisation schedule.
The reported cases come amid a broader international resurgence of diphtheria in several countries in recent years, alongside challenges linked to declining vaccination coverage and the spread of misinformation about vaccines, the statement noted.
