Measles Cases Surge Across the Americas Prompting PAHO Alert

Measles Cases Surge Across the Americas Prompting PAHO Alert

On February 4, 2026, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued a new epidemiological alert regarding an increase in measles cases across the Americas due to sustained transmission and outbreaks.

PAHO reported that during 2025, 14,891 confirmed measles cases and 29 deaths were recorded across 13 countries in the region, representing a substantial increase compared to the previous year, and that the surge continued into early 2026 with an additional 1,031 cases confirmed in the first three weeks of the year.

In the early 2026 cases, Mexico reported the highest number of confirmed infections, followed by the United States and Canada.

PAHO indicated that a high proportion of confirmed cases occurred in individuals who had not received measles vaccination, and emphasized the need for intensified vaccination and surveillance activities to interrupt transmission and protect vulnerable populations.

The alert also called for active case finding, enhanced laboratory diagnosis, and rapid response to suspected cases as part of public health efforts across the region.