Rabies in Morocco

03 Oct 2018

The Moroccan Ministry of Health reported 17 human cases of rabies in 2017, according to a media report (in French). The Ministry also reports 65 000 people were vaccinated against rabies after being bitten or scratched by animals, most of which were dogs.

Since the year 2000, Morocco has reported 367 cases of rabies in humans. By province, the greatest number of cases was recorded in Casablanca-Settat (83) followed by Rabat-Sale-Kenitra (55), Marrakech-Safi (49), Souss-Massa (42), Fes-Meknes (37), Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima (32 cases), Beni-Mellal-Khenifra (30), Oriental (22) and Draa-Tafilalet (17). The provinces most affected are those that are more densely populated with dogs.

Advice for Travellers

Any animal contact in a rabies endemic area poses a potential risk of infection.

• Rabies is the most dangerous of all infectious diseases. There is no recognised treatment once symptoms begin and with the exception of a tiny number of cases, those who develop symptoms of rabies will die.

• An effective rabies vaccination is available.

• All travellers to rabies endemic areas should be aware of the risk of rabies and advised to avoid contact with animals (both wild and domestic), particularly dogs and cats.

• Children are more vulnerable to rabies than adults as they are less likely to comprehend the risk of animal contact, less able to defend themselves from an animal attack and may not report a potential exposure.

• All travellers to endemic areas should be aware of immediate wound care and advised to seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched by an animal.

For further information (including post-exposure advice) see Rabies.