Measles Cases Rise Sharply Across the Americas

PAHO Issues Alert on Rising Measles Cases in the Americas Region

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an epidemiological alert warning of a significant increase in measles cases throughout the region. According to PAHO, there were 1,031 reported cases of measles in the first three weeks of 2026 alone, with a total of 14,891 confirmed cases documented throughout 2025.

The organization is urging member states to strengthen their routine surveillance and vaccination activities to combat the spread of the disease. The alert highlights that the Americas Region has seen a sharp increase in measles cases during 2025 and early 2026.

PAHO notes that countries such as the United States, Mexico, and Canada have reported high numbers of cases. Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that can infect nine out of every 10 people exposed to it if they are unvaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health experts emphasize that vaccination is the only way to prevent measles and halt its spread. The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is widely considered safe and effective.

In recent years, vaccination rates have fallen in some countries due to misinformation and conspiracy theories. However, experts maintain that the vaccine offers lifelong protection and is far safer than exposure to measles itself.

PAHO’s report highlights ongoing outbreaks in several countries, including South Carolina and Texas. The organization is calling on member states to take immediate action to address the rising number of measles cases and prevent further spread of the disease.

In 2025, Mexico reported 6,428 cases of measles, the highest of any country in the Americas. Both the US and Mexico risk seeing their measles elimination status revoked if outbreaks continue.

Source: Al Jazeera