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Measles in Morocco (Update 1)

25 Feb 2025

According to media quoting the Moroccan Ministry of Health there have been 3 365 measles cases (6 deaths) in Morocco between 10 February and 16 February 2025. Cases have been reported from across the country:

Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region: 807 cases

Casablanca-Settat region: 624 cases

Fez-Meknes region: 713 cases

Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region: 526 cases

Marrakesh-Safi region: 225 cases

Eastern region: 229 cases

Beni Mellal-Khenifra region: 101 cases

Souss-Massa region: 64 cases

Guelmim-Oued Noun region: 34 cases

Drâa-Tafilalet region: 23 cases

Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra region: 15 cases

Dakhla-Oued Ed Dahab region: 4 cases

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease spread through sneezing, coughing or direct contact with respiratory fluids. It causes a rash, high temperature (fever) and muscle aches and can have serious complications.

Advice for Travellers

Travelling abroad may increase your risk of measles. Your risk of exposure may be higher if you will be visiting friends and relatives and/or mixing with the local population during your trip.

Two doses of measles vaccine (given as part of MMR in the UK) are needed in your lifetime to fully protect you.

Check with your GP before travelling to ensure you have received two doses of MMR vaccination.

Children should be up to date with the UK Vaccination Schedule. This includes a dose of MMR vaccine at around 12-13 months, and a second dose usually given from 3 years 4 months of age.

  • If your child has not yet had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, talk to your GP or travel health professional as they may be able to have the vaccine earlier than normal if you are travelling to an area considered to have a high risk of exposure to measles.

See the fitfortravel MMR page for further information.