A schoolgirl in Casablanca, Morocco, was taken to Al-Hassani Hospital on the night of October 1, 2026, after showing symptoms that raised concerns about a possible diphtheria infection. The girl was immediately isolated as a precautionary measure, and medical tests were conducted to determine the cause of her condition. According to reports, the hospital took swift action to contain any potential outbreak.
The initial test results, announced on October 2, 2026, confirmed that the schoolgirl does not have diphtheria. This news helped alleviate concerns among hospital staff and patients. As a precaution, the hospital had temporarily closed the main entrance to the emergency department and redirected patients to a secondary entrance to minimize the risk of transmission.
This incident occurred two days after a 12-year-old girl from Sidi Shiaker, in the El Youssoufia province, died from confirmed diphtheria. The deceased girl had shown symptoms including a high fever and difficulty breathing before being transferred to Marrakech, where laboratory tests confirmed the diagnosis. Unfortunately, she succumbed to complications from the disease.
According to available information, the deceased girl had not received the diphtheria vaccine during her childhood. This highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease. Health authorities in Morocco are likely to emphasize vaccination efforts, especially in areas where outbreaks have occurred.
The recent diphtheria cases in Morocco have raised concerns about the country's preparedness and response to infectious diseases. The government and health authorities have been urged to strengthen measures to prevent and control outbreaks. This includes enhancing vaccination programs, improving disease surveillance, and ensuring prompt response to suspected cases.
In a separate incident, a person with a history of offenses was arrested in Agadir on October 2, 2026, for allegedly using a flammable substance to harm another person. The suspect, who is homeless, was taken into custody by police after witnesses reported the incident.
Morocco has also welcomed the adoption of the Abu Dhabi Declaration, a roadmap for international cooperation on crime prevention and criminal justice. The declaration aims to promote global collaboration in preventing crime and ensuring justice. Morocco's support for the declaration reflects its commitment to addressing transnational challenges and promoting peace and security.
Key points
- Moroccan health authorities confirm a schoolgirl does not have diphtheria after displaying symptoms.
- A 12-year-old girl from El Youssoufia province died from confirmed diphtheria on September 30, 2026.
- The Moroccan government faces calls to strengthen measures to prevent and control infectious disease outbreaks.
