Jalisco, Mexico, has recently declared a health alert due to a rising measles outbreak. This decision coincides with preparations for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup. The state capital, Guadalajara, is seeing measures such as mandatory face masks in schools, which will be in effect for 30 days.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) raised alarms this week about the disease spreading across the Americas. Mexico currently leads the region with nearly 2,000 confirmed measles cases and over 5,200 suspected ones this year. Jalisco is at the center of the outbreak, recording 1,163 confirmed cases.
This surge began last year in Chihuahua after a child traveled from Texas, where a local outbreak was occurring. The disease quickly spread in Mennonite communities, known for low vaccine uptake, marking the largest outbreak Mexico has faced in decades. Experts warn that a decline in vaccination rates is contributing to this alarming trend.
Classes have been suspended in 15 schools across Jalisco and Aguascalientes due to the contagious virus. This action marks the first public health mandate since the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
As the World Cup draws near, Mexico faces additional pressure. Countries like Canada have already lost their measles-free status, and the U.S. risks following suit. Both governments are looking for ways to manage the outbreak, having requested a two-month extension for control efforts.
Recent data from PAHO indicates a 43-fold increase in measles cases in the Americas compared to the same period last year. In just three weeks of this year, 1,031 new cases arose across seven countries, but thankfully, no deaths have been reported.
In response, the Mexican government is pushing for vaccinations. They’ve set up vaccine stations in accessible places like airports and bus stations, making it easier for people to get the necessary two doses. This proactive approach aims to curb the outbreak before it escalates further and jeopardizes public health amid the upcoming influx of visitors for the World Cup.
For more insights on vaccination efforts, you can refer to the Pan American Health Organization.
