Measles Outbreak in Morocco Sparks Concerns of Imported Cases in France

According to Public Health France (SPF), in Morocco, the measles epidemic has reached a historic level and totals nearly 25,000 suspected cases, including 6,300 confirmed cases and 120 deaths. The national public health agency fears a resurgence of imported measles cases on French territory. "13 imported or import-related cases following a stay in Morocco have been reported since the beginning of the year in several regions in France, compared to 26 cases in 2024, for a total of 39 imported or import-related cases between 2024 and 2025," SPF specified in a press release published on Friday, February 14.

For the French agency, "this situation is particularly worrying during school holidays, when travel and family gatherings can promote the spread of the virus." It reminds that in France, all children, adolescents and young adults born after 1980 must be vaccinated against measles. Vaccination is mandatory before entering a community for all infants born since January 1, 2018 (a first dose is given at 12 months and a second dose between 16 and 18 months).

Measles is an extremely contagious viral infection characterized by high fever, cough, rhinopharyngitis and significant conjunctivitis, followed by a skin rash. In France, the last deaths related to measles were recorded in 2019, Public Health France recalled to La Dépêche du Midi. Two young adults with immunodeficiency had lost their lives.