Health officials are sounding the alarm over a rise in measles cases across the Americas, including a recently confirmed case in Argentina. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert on , urging member states to strengthen vaccination and surveillance efforts. This alert follows a significant increase in cases throughout and early .
The first case of measles in Argentina this year was identified in a 29-year-old resident of Buenos Aires. The individual had recently traveled to Sydney, Australia, and had contact with someone who had measles. Importantly, the patient was vaccinated, highlighting the potential for breakthrough infections and the importance of robust public health responses.
The patient began experiencing symptoms on , and sought medical attention the following day. During the period when they were contagious, but before symptoms appeared, the patient attended an event in Azul, Buenos Aires province, and visited General Pacheco, where they interacted with friends and family. They are currently isolating at home with their close contacts.
Investigations have traced the origin of this infection to contact with a measles case during a flight between Manila (Philippines) and Sydney (Australia) on . This information was previously reported to the National Contact Point for Argentina, allowing health authorities in Buenos Aires to initiate contact tracing.
Regional Concerns and Vaccination Rates
The situation in Argentina is part of a broader trend across the Americas. PAHO reports that the region is experiencing the largest surge in measles cases in over a decade. In the first three weeks of alone, more than 1,000 new cases were reported in seven countries, representing an unprecedented acceleration in transmission.
Vaccination coverage remains a critical concern. Data from show that only 82.1% of the population in Argentina received the first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and just 46% received the second dose. These figures place Argentina in a “red category,” indicating an urgent need for intervention to prevent further spread.
Throughout , the Americas reported nearly 15,000 confirmed measles cases across 13 countries – a 32-fold increase compared to the 466 cases and 29 deaths reported in .
Public Health Response and Recommendations
The Ministry of Health in Buenos Aires province has deployed teams to Azul and Tigre to investigate contacts, implement control measures, and promote vaccination. “Epidemiology, monitoring and surveillance teams in Buenos Aires province are already conducting contact investigations, containment and vaccination control in Azul and Tigre, districts that the person declared having visited. It is very important that everyone is vaccinated,” stated Nicolás Kreplak, the province’s Minister of Health, in a social media post.
Current vaccination schedules in Argentina recommend the first dose of the measles vaccine at 12 months of age, and the second dose for children born after , between 15 and 18 months. Children born before that date continue to receive the second dose at five years of age.
Healthcare workers are also required to demonstrate proof of vaccination with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or provide evidence of immunity through serology. Adults require two doses as well, with those born before considered immune.
Travel Recommendations
For Argentine residents traveling abroad, specific vaccination recommendations apply:
- Children under six months should not be vaccinated.
- Children between six and eleven months should receive an additional dose of the MMR vaccine.
- Children 12 months and older should follow the standard vaccination schedule.
- Adults and older children should have documentation of two doses of the measles vaccine.
- Pregnant individuals should have proof of two prior vaccinations or positive antibody tests.
It is recommended to complete the vaccination schedule at least 15 days before traveling.
Global Context and the Risk of Further Spread
The rise in measles cases is not limited to the Americas. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported over 552,000 suspected measles cases globally in , with nearly 248,000 confirmed. Approximately 78% of confirmed cases in were in unvaccinated individuals, and in 11% of cases, vaccination status was undocumented.
PAHO emphasizes the importance of strengthening epidemiological surveillance, closing vaccination gaps, and protecting travelers, particularly in light of the upcoming FIFA World Cup . The organization urges governments to accelerate vaccination efforts and ensure rapid responses to potential outbreaks.
The current situation underscores the critical role of vaccination in preventing measles and protecting public health. Maintaining high vaccination coverage rates remains the most effective strategy to control the spread of this highly contagious disease.
