Measles Outbreak in Mexico: Cases Rise Across All States
Mexico is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with cases reported in all 32 states. As of March 13, 2026, the country has accumulated thousands of infections since the beginning of the outbreak, prompting ongoing epidemiological surveillance and vaccination efforts.
National Case Numbers and Deaths
Since the start of 2025, Mexico has recorded over 9,187 confirmed cases of measles 1. The national outbreak has resulted in 35 confirmed deaths associated with the disease as of March 13, 2026 1. At least 28 deaths had been recorded since the beginning of 2025, with two occurring in the first six weeks of 2026 1.
Regional Hotspots
Jalisco is currently the state with the highest number of accumulated measles cases, exceeding 4,000 confirmed infections as of March 13, 2026 1. This accounts for 58% of the national total in 2026 1. Other states with high caseloads include Chihuahua and Chiapas 1. Mexico City has confirmed over 500 cases 1.
Vulnerable Populations
The epidemiological report identifies young children as the most vulnerable group. Infants under one year old have the highest incidence rate, with over 60 cases per 100,000 inhabitants 1. Children aged 1 to 4 and 5 to 9 are also significantly affected, as many have not completed their vaccination schedule 1.
Vaccination Efforts and Risk of Elimination Status
Health authorities are urging unvaccinated individuals to get vaccinated, emphasizing that measles is a vaccine-preventable disease 1. More than 16.2 million measles vaccine doses have been administered nationwide between January 1, 2025, and February 13, 2026 2.
Mexico risks losing its measles elimination status, which it achieved in 1996, if continuous transmission of the virus is confirmed for 12 months 3. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) determines elimination status 3.
Recent Developments
As of January 30, 2026, 4,158 cumulative probable measles cases and 1,479 confirmed cases had been reported from all 32 Mexican states 4. The first measles fatality of 2026 was reported in Michoacán state, bringing the total death toll since the beginning of 2025 to 26 4. Cumulative confirmed measles cases reported in Mexico since January 2025 is now 7,909 4.
Sources:
- 4 Mexico reports 1st measles death of 2026 in Michoacán
- 1 Mexico urges vaccination as measles outbreak spreads
- 3 Mexico could be at risk of losing measles elimination status after more…
- 2 Mexico Applies 16.2 Million Measles Vaccines