Measles Puts Pressure on Mexico Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Mexico is working to control a measles outbreak, with more than 5,300 confirmed cases so far. The number of infections has started to decline, but the outbreak is still active. Health officials are under pressure to stop the spread before the 2026 World Cup begins.

This week marks 10 months of continuous measles transmission in the country. If Mexico does not stop the spread before reaching 12 months, it could lose its measles-free certification from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Canada recently lost this status for the same reason.

The Ministry of Health has said the outbreak is “under control,” but new cases are still confirmed every day. From November 3 to 27, Mexico reported 257 infections—about 14 per day.

Why the World Cup Matters

If Mexico enters February 2026 with active measles cases, it may still be battling the outbreak during the World Cup. Mexico, the United States, and Canada—who are co-hosting the tournament—currently account for 95% of all measles cases in the Americas.

In the U.S., the main outbreak in Texas has been described as the largest in 30 years. Measles had been eliminated in the U.S. since 2000, but falling vaccination rates allowed the disease to return.

With millions of visitors arriving from around the world, experts warn that more measles cases could be imported into Mexico during the event. However, specialists believe that raising vaccination rates now can greatly reduce that risk.

Low Vaccination Rates Are a Big Challenge

To stop measles from spreading, at least 95% of the population must be vaccinated. But in 2024, Mexico’s vaccination coverage fell to 83% for the first dose and 78% for the second dose, far below the recommended level.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. One infected person can spread it to up to 18 others.

Certification at Risk

Mexico’s outbreak began with imported cases in early 2025. Local transmission started in February, meaning the virus has now been spreading inside the country for almost a year. Since then, Mexico has reported:

• 5,386 confirmed cases
• 23 deaths
• 13,070 suspected cases

If transmission continues past the 12-month mark, Mexico will lose its measles-free certification—something it has held since eliminating local measles in 1995.

PAHO already removed Canada’s certification this year and has warned that Mexico and the United States are also at risk.

PAHO and Mexico Take Action

PAHO is helping Mexico control the outbreak by:

• Training rapid-response teams
• Supporting access to vaccines
• Sending health experts to the most affected areas

The worst-hit state is Chihuahua, where over 6,000 cases have been confirmed. The outbreak began in a Mennonite community known for low vaccination rates. Seasonal farmworkers, who move between states, have also helped spread the virus.

Mexico’s Ministry of Health has launched large vaccination campaigns targeting:

• Children
• Farmworkers
• Migrants
• Adults up to age 49

Why Certification Matters

Losing the measles-free certification would be a major setback for Mexico and for the entire region. The Americas was once the only continent in the world to eliminate measles.

Experts say that losing the certification would show that Mexico needs to improve vaccination and surveillance. PAHO has urged all countries to strengthen their efforts, especially before major events like the World Cup.