Mexico Has Two Months to Contain Measles Outbreak and Maintain Disease-Free Status

Mexico is experiencing a widespread measles outbreak, now confirmed in ⁢all 32 states – an unprecedented‌ expansion in⁤ recent years. As of January ​19,2026,the federal Ministry⁤ of Health reports over 7,168 cases and 24 deaths linked to the viral illness,according⁣ to the Daily Measles Outbreak report from the​ General Directorate of Epidemiology.

Prior to the ⁣outbreak,which began in February 2025,the Americas region was the only one globally to have achieved⁤ measles-free status. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has since revoked this certification.

during a press conference this Tuesday, Health Secretary david ​Kershenobich stated that PAHO ⁣has given Mexico two months to contain the outbreak before a review of the country’s ‌international ⁢health status, scheduled for a virtual evaluation meeting on​ April 13, 2026.