Measles Outbreak in Mexico: Cases Surpass 13,000, Deaths Reach 35
Mexico is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with confirmed cases exceeding 13,000 and a death toll of 35 as of March 13, 2026. The resurgence of this highly contagious viral disease is impacting multiple states and age groups, prompting increased vaccination efforts from health authorities.
Rising Case Numbers and Geographic Distribution
As of the latest report, a total of 13,408 measles cases have been confirmed across the country. The outbreak is widespread, affecting 433 municipalities in various regions of Mexico. The most affected age group is children between 1 and 4 years old, accounting for 1,782 infections. Following closely are children aged 5 to 9 years with 1,569 cases, and young adults between 25 and 29 years old, also with 1,569 infections. However, the highest infection rate is observed in infants under one year of age, with a rate of 65.78 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Deaths and Affected States
Tragically, the outbreak has resulted in 35 deaths since transmissions began in February 2025. These fatalities have been recorded in ten states:
- Chihuahua: 21
- Jalisco: 4
- Sonora: 1
- Durango: 2
- Michoacán: 1
- Tlaxcala: 1
- Mexico City: 2
- Chiapas: 1
- Guerrero: 1
- Sinaloa: 1
Public Health Response and Vaccination Efforts
In response to the escalating outbreak, the Ministry of Health has implemented various preventive strategies. These include intensified vaccination campaigns aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. Health authorities are urging the population to get vaccinated, particularly children and adults between 20 and 49 years old who lack immunization or have an incomplete vaccination schedule.
To expand vaccination coverage, additional modules have been established in high-traffic areas, such as bus terminals and Metro stations in Mexico City, to facilitate access to the vaccine.
Symptoms and Prevention
The initial symptoms of measles typically appear 10 to 14 days after infection. Completing the vaccination schedule remains the primary protective measure against measles and reducing the risks for the population.
Recent Updates on Case Counts
As of February 17, 2026, Mexico had reported 9,850 confirmed measles cases since the outbreak began in early 2025 1. At that time, the death toll stood at 31. On March 2, 2026, the number of confirmed cases had risen to 11,889 with 32 deaths 2. Another report on February 17, 2026, indicated 8,889 cases and 28 deaths 3.
1 Outbreak News Today. (Feb 17, 2026). Mexico measles death toll now 31. Retrieved from https://outbreaknewstoday.substack.com/p/mexico-measles-death-toll-now-31
2 The Lancet. (Mar 2, 2026). Measles re-emergence in Mexico: essential public health… Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00074-8/fulltext
3 Mexico Business. (Feb 17, 2026). Measles Cases Rise to 8,889 Across Mexico. Retrieved from https://mexicobusiness.news/health/news/measles-cases-rise-8889-across-mexico