In Mexico, amid a sharp rise in measles cases, authorities have launched a large-scale free vaccination campaign for children and adults. The reason was the deterioration of the epidemiological situation in the country and the first recorded deaths, including Mexico City, which had not previously occurred during the current outbreak.
According to the latest report from the Federal Ministry of Health, 8,899 cases of the disease have been confirmed in Mexico since the start of the measles epidemic in 2025-2026. Of these, 2,467 cases were reported between January 1 and February 9, 2026. The total number of deaths has reached 28 people.
Jalisco state remains the epicenter of the outbreak, with 1,910 measles cases reported. This is followed by Chiapas with 250 cases and Sinaloa with 144. In Mexico City, 138 cases of the disease were confirmed, while the first death was recorded here during the entire period of the epidemic, which became an alarming signal for the capital's authorities.
The faster spread of measles has forced at least nine states to reintroduce health measures similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are talking about the states of Mexico City, Jalisco, Veracruz, Hidalgo, Morelos, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Zacatecas and Aguascalientes. In these states, wearing masks in kindergartens, schools and public health facilities has become recommended or mandatory.
Amid these measures, the Mexican government has urgently ordered mass vaccination campaigns. Of the cases for which information is available, 78% have not been vaccinated, and another 11% have no vaccination records, according to the Pan American Health Organization. It is the decline in vaccination coverage in recent years, and in addition the arrival of guest countries with already developed infection, that have become the key factors in the current outbreak.
Vaccination will be carried out in all states. In Mexico City, authorities plan to deploy more than 300 vaccination points in health centers and public places, in addition to 64 mobile units in the public transport system, including metro stations, Metrobús and RTP. In each of the 16 districts of the capital, at least one central point will operate with an extended schedule until 23:00.
Other regions are also actively involved in vaccination. In the state of Quintana Roo, the free campaign was announced after six cases of measles were confirmed in Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Chetumal. The state Department of Health has opened vaccination sites throughout the region, targeting both residents and residents.
Health authorities emphasize that measles — is a highly contagious but entirely preventable disease, and the following populations are strongly encouraged to be immunized:
- children under 10 years of age, especially at the ages of 12 months (first dose), 18 months and 6 years (second dose),
- children and adults aged 10 to 49 years,
- persons who do not have documentation of vaccination or do not remember their vaccination status;
- people with an incomplete vaccination schedule.
For children, the triple MMR vaccine is available, and for those aged 6 to 49 years, the double MMR vaccine is available for completion or primary immunization.
Free vaccinations are provided in health centers (Centro de salud, public hospitals) and temporary sites in public places. To purchase a vaccine, you will usually need:
- vaccination card (if available),
- CURP (Unique Population Registration Code).
Lack of documentation of previous vaccinations is not considered a reason to refuse vaccination.