Mexico Faces Rising Measles Cases: Vaccination Urged

Mexico is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, prompting urgent calls for vaccination from health officials. As of early 2026, the country has recorded thousands of cases and a growing number of fatalities, raising concerns about a potential loss of its measles elimination status.

Measles Outbreak: A National Concern

Since the beginning of 2025, Mexico has confirmed over 9,187 measles cases, with nearly 30% – 2,755 cases – reported in 2026 alone. The outbreak is impacting all 32 Mexican states, with the majority of cases occurring in infants and young children. As of January 30, 2026, there were 4,158 probable cases and 1,479 confirmed cases. Source

The measles death toll since the start of 2025 has reached 28, with two fatalities reported in the first six weeks of 2026. Source The first measles death of 2026 was reported in Michoacán state. Source

Which Regions are Most Affected?

Jalisco is currently the epicenter of the outbreak, accounting for 58% of the national total in 2026, with 1,603 confirmed cases. Source Other states with high case numbers include Chiapas (282 confirmed cases), Mexico City (157 confirmed cases), and Sinaloa (144 confirmed cases) as of February 12, 2026. Source Jalisco also has the highest incidence rate per capita, with 17.85 confirmed cases per 100,000 people. Source

Vaccination Recommendations

The Mexican Ministry of Health is strongly urging individuals who have not been fully vaccinated against measles to receive the vaccine. Source Vaccination sites have been established across the country to ensure easy access.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

Priority groups for vaccination include:

• Infants 12 months old (first dose of MMR vaccine)
• Infants 18 months old (second dose of MMR vaccine)
• Children 6-11 months living in areas with active outbreaks (a “0” dose)
• Children 2-9 years who are not up-to-date on vaccinations
• Individuals under 49 years of age who do not have a complete vaccination record or do not recall being vaccinated
• Agricultural workers, migrants, and highly mobile populations, particularly in high-incidence areas

What if You Don’t Know Your Vaccination Status?

For individuals aged 10-49 who do not have documented proof of two doses of the measles, rubella, and mumps (MMR) vaccine, the recommended approach is to receive a dose of the measles and rubella (MR) vaccine. Source If you have received one prior dose of MMR or MR, a single dose of MR is recommended. If you have no record of prior vaccination, two doses of MR are recommended, spaced four weeks apart. Source

Individuals who are certain they have had measles in the past do not need to be vaccinated.

Contraindications to Vaccination

Vaccination is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with severe immune deficiencies or a history of anaphylactic allergy. Medical evaluation is advised before vaccination in these cases. Source

Potential Loss of Elimination Status

Mexico risks losing its measles elimination status, which it achieved in 1996, if continuous measles transmission is confirmed for 12 months. Source The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) determines elimination status. Source

Where to Get Vaccinated

The Mexican government has provided a link to locate vaccination centers: https://dondemevacuno.salud.gob.mx/. The site displays available centers, addresses, hours, and vaccine types. Source A vaccine information line is also available at 079.

Residents of Mexico City can discover vaccination points through the city government’s official website.