In a heartbreaking incident that has raised health concerns in Morocco, two brothers aged between 10 and 17 from El Khemis, a douar located in the commune of Aït Amira, have tragically passed away at the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Agadir. The Ministry of Health and Social Protection confirmed on Monday that there are suspicions of diphtheria as the cause of their deaths.
The ministry has identified two small family clusters within the prefecture of Agadir Ida-Outanane and the province of Chtouka Aït Baha, both situated in the Souss-Massa region. While one case has been confirmed through laboratory tests, the other eight cases—including the two fatalities—remain under investigation, pending further laboratory confirmation. Alarmingly, it has been reported that the affected children either did not receive vaccinations against diphtheria or did not complete the recommended vaccination schedule.
In response to this alarming situation, the ministry has activated its epidemiological response protocol. Rapid response teams from the Souss-Massa Territorial Health Group have commenced investigations into the clusters, actively searching for additional cases, identifying and monitoring close contacts, and administering preventive antibiotics and vaccinations. The close contacts of the deceased brothers include their mother, two other siblings, and another family member, as reported by the local broadcaster 2M. Furthermore, the hospital has been placed on high alert, with its medical staff receiving vaccinations to protect against potential exposure.
Dr. Tayeb Hamdi, a physician and researcher in health policy and systems, as well as vice-president of the National Federation of Health, emphasized the need for vigilance in light of these cases. He noted that Morocco had not reported any instances of diphtheria for over two decades, highlighting that even a single confirmed case represents a significant shift in the country’s epidemiological landscape. He also pointed to recent outbreaks in other parts of Africa, including Mauritania and Algeria, as well as cases reported in Europe, particularly among migrant populations.
Understanding Diphtheria and Its Transmission
Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Dr. Hamdi explained that the real danger lies not just in the bacterium itself, but in the capability of certain strains to produce a toxin that can severely damage various organs of the body. The respiratory form of diphtheria is particularly perilous, presenting symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, swelling of the neck, and persistent coughing. In severe cases, adherent grey membranes may form in the throat, obstructing the airways and leading to breathing difficulties. Diphtheria can also manifest on the skin, typically resulting in a less severe form of the disease.
The transmission of this infection primarily occurs through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Additionally, direct contact with infected skin lesions can facilitate the spread of the disease. According to Dr. Hamdi, in severe instances, the toxin produced by the bacteria can inflict damage on the heart, kidneys, and nerves, as outlined by the World Health Organization.
The Importance of Vaccination and Early Intervention
Dr. Hamdi underscored the critical role of vaccination in preventing diphtheria. The vaccine enables the body to develop immunity against the toxin; however, this immunity can diminish if recommended booster doses are not administered. He pointed out that lapses in childhood vaccination schedules and missed booster doses could allow the disease to resurface, reinforcing the urgent need to ensure that children's vaccinations are current and to evaluate the booster needs of adults in accordance with health guidelines.
He urged that suspected cases be isolated and evaluated without delay, emphasizing that treatment involves the administration of antibiotics to eradicate the bacterium, along with diphtheria antitoxin to neutralize the toxin before it can bind to vital organ tissues. Additionally, he called for health facilities to maintain a state of readiness, advised individuals to seek medical assistance for severe or unusual sore throats, and insisted that diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics be readily accessible in regional healthcare settings.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
