Morocco Aims for 80% COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage by May, Minister Says

In an interview with MAP, the Minister of Health indicated that based on the scientific and epidemiological indicators recognized by the WHO, more than 60% of the population would need to be reached to achieve collective immunity. However, Morocco has chosen to target 80% of the population in order to free itself from this pandemic that has lasted too long. Nevertheless, the minister warns that achieving collective immunity will take time.

Khalid Ait Taleb stressed that precautions are being taken to ensure that the campaign is carried out in strict compliance with barrier measures. As for the vaccine’s effectiveness, he stated that only time will reveal how long it will remain effective against Covid-19 or whether the virus will become seasonal like H1N1, which has been included in the flu vaccination program.

Regarding the actual start of the vaccination campaign, the minister indicated that it will be officially announced after the vaccine is received. It is a large-scale operation that will cover the entire national territory and will require significant logistical and human resources and flawless organization, he noted. He therefore calls on Moroccans to play their role so that the campaign is a success for the well-being and protection of all.