Measles Surge Prompts Urgent Action Across Americas

The Pan American Health Organization urges enhanced epidemiological surveillance and vaccination following a surge in measles cases in the Americas. The outbreak has seen a dramatic rise in 2026, with a 43-fold increase from the previous year. Canada lost its measles elimination status, affecting the region's overall status.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an urgent call for increased epidemiological surveillance and vaccination efforts in response to a significant measles outbreak sweeping across the Americas. The rise in cases has led to a dramatic surge in infections, prompting immunization gaps to be closed swiftly.

In the first three weeks of 2026 alone, seven countries confirmed an additional 1,031 cases of measles, with Mexico and the United States reporting the highest numbers. This figure marks a staggering 43-fold increase from the mere 23 cases reported during the same period in 2025, according to PAHO officials.

In an alarming setback, Canada lost its long-held measles elimination status in November due to a year-long outbreak, a development that has also impacted the overall status of the Americas region. The situation is exacerbated by a significant outbreak in South Carolina, with 876 cases reported. PAHO stresses the urgency of strengthening surveillance and vaccination to curb the spread.

(With inputs from agencies.)