HIBAPRESS – Agadir
The Ministry of Health and Social Protection announced today, Monday, September 28, 2026, the detection of two limited family clusters of "Diphtheria" in the province of Agadir Ida-Outanane and the prefecture of Chtouka Ait Baha in the Souss-Massa region, as part of the national system for epidemic vigilance and monitoring.
According to the data provided by the ministry, one case has been laboratory confirmed, while eight cases are under investigation and laboratory confirmation, including two deaths. The available data also indicated that the children affected by these clusters had not been vaccinated against diphtheria or had not completed the recommended vaccination doses.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial disease that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract. The bacteria can produce a toxin that affects other organs of the body. The disease spreads from person to person, especially through respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with secretions or certain skin lesions.
What are the most prominent symptoms of Diphtheria?
Symptoms typically appear between two and five days after exposure to the bacteria and may begin gradually. Prominent symptoms include sore throat, fever, feeling weak and tired, as well as swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
A distinguishing sign in respiratory cases is the appearance of a thick gray or white membrane in the throat, tonsils, or nose, which can lead to difficulty swallowing and breathing. In severe cases, significant swelling of the neck may occur. The toxins produced by the bacteria can also lead to serious complications affecting the heart, nerves, and other organs.
Vaccination is a primary means of prevention
The World Health Organization emphasizes that diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease and that unvaccinated individuals or those who have not completed their vaccination doses are at higher risk of infection. Early diagnosis and treatment also significantly reduce the risk of complications and death.
With the detection of the two family clusters in the Souss-Massa region, health vigilance, adherence to the vaccination schedule, and seeking medical care when worrisome symptoms appear remain essential measures to limit the spread of the disease.
