Measles Outbreak in Mexico: Cases Rise to 10,085 & Vaccination Urged
- Mexico is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, prompting urgent calls for vaccination from health officials.
- A substantial majority – over 91% – of those infected have not been vaccinated against measles, according to the Secretaría de Salud.
- More than one-third of the total cases have occurred in 2026 alone, with 3,643 patients diagnosed this year.
Mexico is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, prompting urgent calls for vaccination from health officials. As of , the country has recorded 10,085 confirmed cases since the beginning of , with 235 new cases reported in the last . The surge in cases is particularly concerning as Mexico prepares to host the FIFA World Cup, raising fears of further transmission among international travelers.
A substantial majority – over 91% – of those infected have not been vaccinated against measles, according to the Secretaría de Salud. This underscores the critical importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of this highly contagious viral disease.
Rising Cases in 2026
More than one-third of the total cases have occurred in alone, with 3,643 patients diagnosed this year. The outbreak is widespread, affecting 362 municipalities across all 32 federal entities in Mexico since .
The most affected age group is children aged 1 to 4 years, followed by those aged 5 to 9 years and then individuals aged 25 to 29 years. This distribution highlights the vulnerability of both young children who are too young to be fully vaccinated and adults who may have missed vaccination opportunities earlier in life.
Jalisco at the Epicenter
The state of Jalisco currently bears the brunt of the outbreak, accounting for 2,153 confirmed cases. Other states with significant numbers of cases include Chiapas (326), Mexico City (228), Sinaloa (169), and Puebla (87). On a per capita basis, Jalisco has the highest rate of infection, with 17.85 cases per 100,000 people in .
Fatalities and Vaccination Status
As of , 31 deaths have been attributed to measles during the – period. Importantly, over 96% of those who died were unvaccinated. The states reporting fatalities are Chihuahua (21), Jalisco (3), Durango (2), Sonora (1), Michoacán (1), Tlaxcala (1), Mexico City (1), and Chiapas (1).
Health Minister David Kershenobich has emphasized that a single measles patient can infect up to 18 people, reinforcing the need for widespread vaccination to control the outbreak.
INE Implements Preventative Measures
The National Electoral Institute (INE) is also taking steps to mitigate the risk of transmission. Following a confirmed case among its personnel, the INE has reinstated mandatory mask-wearing in common areas, increased the availability of hand sanitizer, and is planning vaccination drives. The institute is also considering remote work options for some employees to further reduce potential exposure.
A vaccination drive is scheduled for , at the INE complex in Tlalpan, targeting personnel aged 49 years or younger who need to complete their vaccination schedule. This builds on existing vaccination campaigns in high-risk states like Chihuahua, and Jalisco.
The INE is also implementing enhanced monitoring for symptoms and strict hygiene protocols within its facilities, including mandatory mask use in enclosed spaces, hand sanitization upon entry and exit, and restrictions on physical contact. These measures are intended to protect both employees and the public who visit INE offices.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an alert regarding the surge in measles cases across the Americas, with Mexico reporting the highest numbers. This regional alert underscores the broader public health implications of the outbreak and the need for coordinated efforts to prevent further spread.
Individuals seeking vaccination are encouraged to use the official portal dondemevacuno.salud.gob.mx to locate the nearest vaccination point by state, municipality, and age group.