Morocco Prepares for Potential Stage 2 of Coronavirus Outbreak

According to the director of the epidemic, Mohamed Lyoubi, it is not excluded that Morocco will move to stage 2 of the spread of the coronavirus. As for the 3rd stage, the doctor believes that it is "probable but low". "We are preparing for the worst-case scenarios. Even if we should only have 500 or 600 cases. But that doesn’t mean it’s going to happen," he reassured.

The doctor also added that the authorities were making forecasts and projections based on statistics and the evolution of this global pandemic. As part of the forecasts and observations of the development of this virus, the health official expects that "7 to 8% of cases will be serious".

Mohamed Lyoubi also recalled that since last week, Morocco has recorded an increase in entries into the territory of Moroccans residing abroad and foreign nationals residing in Morocco. "From March 9 until today, we have recorded 63 suspected cases; and this is what gave us the 15 confirmed cases, whereas before we had 41 suspected cases; which had resulted in only 2 confirmed cases," said the epidemiologist. He did not fail to specify that the carriers of the coronavirus in Morocco are all imported cases from abroad.

The head of the epidemiology department also said that Morocco could change its strategy if necessary, by increasing the number of specific units dedicated to the treatment of affected persons and for quarantine. "If we have to review the way we work, we will do so," he promised.