Mexico City Addresses Rising Measles Cases
Mexico City's health authorities have confirmed 418 accumulated cases of measles, initiating a robust vaccination campaign aimed at achieving herd immunity by the end of March. This local effort is part of a wider national response to a significant measles outbreak that commenced in February 2025.
The capital's reported cases contribute to a national total that has surpassed 9,000 confirmed infections across Mexico since the beginning of 2025. As of late February 2026, the country has recorded 31 measles-related deaths, with two fatalities occurring in Mexico City.
National Outbreak and Public Health Response
The measles outbreak has affected all 32 federal entities in Mexico, with Jalisco currently experiencing the most severe impact, reporting 1,603 confirmed cases in 2026 alone, accounting for 58% of the national total for the year as of mid-February. Other states with notable case counts include Chiapas and Sinaloa.
In response to the escalating situation, the Mexican government has intensified its vaccination strategy. Between January 1, 2025, and February 13, 2026, over 16.2 million measles vaccine doses were administered nationwide. Authorities have emphasized the availability of vaccines, with 28 million doses reportedly ready for immediate application. Vaccination efforts prioritize children aged six months to 12 years, as well as individuals aged 13 to 49 who lack vaccination records or have incomplete schedules.
Widespread Vaccination Campaigns Underway
To facilitate widespread immunization, various initiatives have been launched. In Mexico City, a Mega Vaccination Center was established at the UNAM Exhibition and Congress Center. Additionally, Mayor Clara Brugada introduced 2,000 new vaccination modules and mobile vaccination clinics have been deployed to high-traffic areas such as airports and bus terminals. Vaccination stands have also been set up on Mexico City streets to improve access. The Ministry of Health encourages the public to utilize the online platform dondemevacuno.salud.gob.mx to locate their nearest vaccination site.
International Concern and Elimination Status Review
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an epidemiological alert regarding the surge in measles cases across the Americas, noting that Mexico has reported the highest numbers in the region. PAHO confirmed 1,031 new measles cases across seven countries in the first three weeks of 2026, marking a 43-fold increase compared to the same period last year. The organization has highlighted that 78% of recent cases involved unvaccinated individuals.
Mexico, which achieved measles elimination status in 1996, is now at risk of losing this designation. PAHO's Regional Monitoring and Re-Verification Commission for Measles, Rubella, and Congenital Rubella Syndrome (RVC) has invited Mexico and the United States to a virtual meeting on April 13, 2026, to review their measles elimination status. The ongoing outbreak also comes ahead of Mexico's role as a co-host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding urgency to containment efforts.
0 Comments