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Measles Surge: Americas Face Vaccine Crisis
5 Feb
Summary
- Measles cases increased 43-fold year-over-year across seven countries.
- Mexico leads with 740 cases, followed by the US and Canada.
- Vaccination campaigns are urgently needed due to low coverage rates.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a critical epidemiological alert due to a sharp rise in measles cases throughout the Americas. Mexico currently reports the highest number of infections. This alarming trend has led to Canada losing its measles-free status, with the US and Mexico potentially facing similar setbacks.
PAHO confirmed 1,031 new measles cases across seven countries in the first three weeks of 2026, a 43-fold increase from the previous year. Mexico leads with 740 cases, followed by the United States with 171, and Canada with 67. No deaths have been reported yet.
The situation is exacerbated by "persistent immunization gaps," with only 33% of countries reaching the 95% first-dose vaccine threshold and 20% achieving it for the second dose. Mexico City's mayor has launched extensive mobile vaccination clinics in high-traffic areas to boost coverage for those under 49.
Authorities in both Mexico and the United States have requested extensions to control their outbreaks. The urgency is heightened as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, with the tournament set to begin across North America. PAHO emphasizes the need for reinforced second-dose vaccination coverage.
