At least 28 people have died in a measles outbreak that began last year and has led to more than 9,000 confirmed cases across Mexico. Authorities have launched an intensive vaccination campaign through fixed and mobile units as the outbreak has spread to all 32 states.
Mexico has initiated a nationwide vaccination drive in response to the measles outbreak, which began in 2025 and has continued to expand. According to official data, the number of confirmed cases has reached 9,074, with at least 28 fatalities. Authorities announced that the virus has now spread to all 32 states of the country.
Mexican Health Minister David Kershenobich shared the latest figures with the public, stating that the outbreak has persisted since 2025. President Claudia Sheinbaum said the government currently has 28 million doses of the measles vaccine in stock, adding that supplies are sufficient and that a distribution plan has been prepared.
Fixed and Mobile Vaccination Centers Established
Fixed and mobile vaccination centers have been set up in Mexico City and surrounding states. Vaccination campaigns have been launched at the Central de Abasto wholesale market and in metro stations in Mexico City. Authorities aim to increase immunization rates, particularly in densely populated areas.
The State of Mexico has decided to intensify health screenings in schools. Officials announced that students’ temperatures will be checked upon entry, mask use is being recommended, and the vaccination campaign will be accelerated. In the western state of Jalisco, mask-wearing has been made mandatory in some schools.
Outbreak Spread Nationwide
Measles cases first surged in March 2025 in the northern state of Chihuahua. Authorities linked the first case to an unvaccinated child who had visited an outbreak area in the U.S. state of Texas. Although the outbreak in Chihuahua was brought under control, the virus gradually spread across the country.
According to data from Mexico’s Ministry of Health, the cumulative measles incidence rate stands at 6.7 cases per 100,000 people nationwide. The state of Jalisco accounts for more than half of the confirmed cases, while hundreds of cases have also been recorded in the capital, Mexico City.
Critical Period Ahead of the World Cup
Mexico will co-host the FIFA World Cup with the United States and Canada from June 11 to July 19 this year. With millions of visitors expected to arrive, authorities stated that no extraordinary measures are currently planned for the tournament, but the intensive vaccination campaign will continue.
President Sheinbaum expressed confidence that the outbreak would be brought under control, noting that high vaccination rates have prevented a larger crisis.