Seven Countries Lead the Americas in Measles Cases in 2026

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urgently calling for coordinated action by Member States in Region #3 in response to a significant resurgence of measles in the Region of the Americas, including the United States.

While most Americans are focusing on measles outbreaks in Florida and South Carolina in February 2026, six countries are affected: Bolivia (10 cases), Canada (67 cases), Chile (1 case), Guatemala (41 cases), Mexico (740 cases), and Uruguay (1 case).

"Measles elimination in the Americas was a historic achievement, but recent events (in Canada and Mexico) demonstrate that this progress is fragile and can be reversed without consistently high vaccination coverage," stated the PAHO Director in a report issued on February 3, 2026.

"Coordinated action now can save lives, prevent further outbreaks, and ensure the health security of the region."

The PAHO emphasizes that measles is a highly contagious yet entirely preventable disease through vaccination. The current surge in cases highlights significant gaps in routine immunization.

To alert international travelers to this serious health risk in 2026, the U.S. CDC continues to issue a Level 1 Travel Health Notice, which identifies numerious countries facing measles outbreaks.

The dramatic increase in cases during 2025 and into early 2026 serves as a warning sign of vulnerabilities in vaccination coverage, says the PAHO.

As of February 7, 2026, measles vaccination services are offered to international travelers at local clinics.