The state of Jalisco in Mexico has issued a health alert due to a measles outbreak in the state capital, Guadalajara, which is a significant host city for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. In response to the situation, the authorities have mandated the use of face masks in schools.
This decision follows an epidemiological alert issued by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) earlier in the week regarding the spread of measles in the Americas, particularly in Mexico. Mexico has reported 1,981 confirmed cases of measles this year, with over 5,200 suspected cases, making it the most affected country in the region.
Jalisco is at the center of the outbreak, with 1,163 confirmed cases and 2,092 suspected cases reported by the Mexican government. The measles outbreak in Mexico originated last year in the state of Chihuahua and spread rapidly, especially in communities with low vaccination rates, such as Mennonite communities.
Experts warn that the increasing outbreaks in the region are linked to declining vaccination rates. Mauricio Rodriguez, a microbiology professor at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, highlighted the importance of vaccination to prevent further outbreaks. With the upcoming World Cup, there is a heightened risk of introducing new outbreaks as visitors from around the world gather in countries like the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
To address the situation, health authorities in Jalisco have announced that masks will be mandatory in schools in specific neighborhoods in Guadalajara for the next 30 days. This proactive measure aims to control the spread of the virus and protect the population. Additionally, efforts are underway to vaccinate students and teachers in the affected areas to curb the infection rate.
Jalisco’s swift actions mark the first public health mandate in Mexico since the COVID-19 pandemic. The government is urging the population to get vaccinated against measles and has set up vaccination sites in key locations like airports and bus stations to facilitate access to immunization.
As the region faces a surge in measles cases, it is crucial for communities to prioritize vaccination to prevent further outbreaks and protect public health. The Mexican government’s efforts to control the spread of measles are essential in safeguarding the population and ensuring a safe environment, especially with major events like the World Cup on the horizon.
