Diphtheria has reappeared in Morocco after more than three decades without reported cases, exposing vaccination gaps and the need for early detection.

The Ministry of Health announced in late September that two family clusters had been identified in the Souss-Massa region, in Agadir Ida-Outanane and Chtouka Ait Baha. The cases involved children who had not been vaccinated or had not completed their vaccination schedules. Additional isolated cases were also reported, including one imported from abroad.

Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that mainly affects the nose and throat, although it can also affect the skin. The bacteria produce a toxin that can damage the heart, nerves, and kidneys. Without appropriate treatment, the disease has a fatality rate of between 5% and 10%, according to medical experts.

Professor Majdouline Oubtil, a clinical epidemiologist and professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Rabat, said the reported cases highlight the importance of completing vaccination schedules and recognizing warning signs early.