Measles Outbreak in Mexico: Vaccination Sites and Priority Groups

Federal Health Alert for Active Measles Transmission

Federal Health Secretary David Kershenobich reported during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference that Mexico has recorded more than 7,000 cumulative measles cases between 2025 and 2026. The outbreak shows the highest incidence in northern states, particularly in Chihuahua, where community transmission remains active.

Although the number of active cases shows a declining trend, health authorities are maintaining an intensive vaccination strategy to contain the outbreak.

Vaccination Reinforcement in High-Traffic Locations

As part of extraordinary measures, the Health Ministry announced the opening of vaccination centers in locations with high concentrations of people, such as Metro stations and bus terminals in Mexico and other states including Quintana Roo. The objective is to expand coverage and reduce the risk of infection.

Measles vaccines are available free of charge at:

• IMSS
• IMSS Bienestar
• ISSSTE
• Public health centers, regardless of insurance status

To find the nearest vaccination module, individuals can call 079 and select option 7.

Symptoms and Risks of Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by a morbillivirus. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after infection and include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• White spots in the mouth (Koplik spots)

While many people recover within two weeks, measles can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, ear infections, vision loss, and even death.

The most vulnerable groups are young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.

Priority Groups and Vaccination Strategy

The national strategy includes:

• Vaccination in early childhood
• Mandatory second dose
• Catch-up schedules for lagging populations

Priority groups are:

• Children aged 12 and 18 months
• Population aged 2 to 9 years without complete vaccination schedule
• Health and education personnel
• Agricultural day laborers
• Adults aged 20 to 39 without previous vaccination

As an extraordinary measure, a zero dose will be administered to babies aged 6 to 11 months to protect them during the outbreak.

Recommendations for Getting Vaccinated

Health authorities recommend:

• Not attending with high fever or severe symptoms
• Wearing clothing that allows access to the arm or thigh
• Using face masks in waiting rooms
• Bringing the National Health Card if available

If individuals do not have a health card, they will receive a provisional vaccination certificate.

Who Should Get Vaccinated Against Measles?

Specialists noted that people born before 1957 are typically immune, but older adults in high-risk environments might require a booster.

In Mexico, those who should complete the vaccination schedule are primarily people aged 20 to 39 without previous vaccination, in addition to the priority groups.