PAHO urges countries to be vigilant of measles ahead of World Cup

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a strong warning about a sustained rise in measles cases worldwide and across the Americas, urging countries to remain vigilant, especially with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The global health body noted a significant increase in reported cases, highlighting the potential for further spread during large international gatherings.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 184,000 measles cases were reported globally between January 1 and May 13 this year, with more than half confirmed. In the Americas, PAHO reported 20,521 confirmed measles cases and 25 deaths across 16 countries and one territory during the first 20 epidemiological weeks of 2026. This figure represents a fourfold increase compared to the same period in 2025 and already surpasses the total cases from the previous year.

Mexico leads the Americas with 10,920 confirmed cases and 13 deaths, followed by Guatemala with 6,209 cases and 12 deaths. Canada and the United States have also reported substantial numbers, with 1,018 and 1,952 cases, respectively. Other nations in the region, including Peru, Bolivia, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Uruguay, have also documented cases linked to outbreaks or international travel.

PAHO stressed that the majority of reported infections have occurred among individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. The organization is urging health authorities to enhance measles surveillance, vaccination coverage, and rapid response capabilities. PAHO recommends that countries review their performance in measles and rubella surveillance and vaccination to identify high-risk areas and implement preventive actions. They emphasized that while a measles vaccination certificate is not an entry requirement, vaccination remains the most effective tool to prevent transmission and protect public health, particularly in the context of increased international travel for major events like the World Cup.