Health experts reassured the public that there is no new variant of the measles virus in Morocco, despite concerns following reports of cases in Europe linked to genetic strains from the country.
Dr. Tayeb Hamdi, a health policy researcher, clarified that the measles virus is stable and has 24 globally recognized genetic strains, none of which undergo mutations that would affect vaccine effectiveness.
“The measles virus consists of 24 globally recognized genetic strains, and these strains are continuously monitored through genomic sequencing techniques,” he told "DIWIDA.NEWS" |AR in a statement.
Dr. Hamdi emphasized that the notion of a new variant specific to Morocco or any other country is baseless.
“This does not mean that a new variant specific to Morocco or any other country exists,” he said.
“The measles virus does not undergo mutations that alter its immunity or reduce vaccine effectiveness.” He also noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends genomic analyses of detected cases to trace the virus’s transmission, but the virus itself remains stable.
Dr. Said Afif, a pediatrician and member of the scientific committee for COVID-19 vaccination, also addressed the concerns, confirming that the measles vaccine, which has been in use for over 40 years, is both safe and effective.
“The vaccine used against this disease is the same one that has been in place for over forty years, and it is both safe and effective,” Dr. Afif stated.
Both experts praised Morocco’s ongoing vaccination efforts, which have contributed to a significant decrease in measles cases.
Dr. Afif pointed out that the country had successfully reviewed over 11 million health records, ensuring that 90% of children who hadn’t previously been vaccinated received the measles shot.
He stressed the importance of maintaining these efforts: “It’s crucial to continue vaccination campaigns to prevent outbreaks and maintain public health.”
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