Mexico’s Health Minister David Kershenobich said on Wednesday that at least 28 people have died in the country’s ongoing measles outbreak, which began in 2025. Officials shared updated figures during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press briefing, reporting a total of 9,074 confirmed cases so far.
To combat the outbreak, Mexico has 28 million measles vaccine doses ready for distribution. President Sheinbaum stated that the available supply “is sufficient in an outbreak, and there will even be some left over.” According to official data, Mexico’s cumulative measles incidence stands at about 6.7 cases per 100,000 people.
Addressing concerns related to major upcoming events, Sheinbaum said that no extraordinary public health measures have been planned so far in connection with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Mexico will co-host with the United States and Canada.
Measles surge also in South Carolina
Meanwhile in the United States, health officials in South Carolina reported a significant increase in measles cases. In January, the state’s health department confirmed 310 measles cases, up by 99 cases from earlier in the week — the largest single jump in what has been a months-long surge.
Health experts warn that measles, a highly contagious viral disease, can spread rapidly in communities with low vaccination coverage and can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals.
Key points:
- Mexico outbreak: 28 deaths, 9,074 confirmed cases
- Vaccines available: 28 million doses ready for distribution
- Incidence: ~6.7 measles cases per 100,000 population
- World Cup: No extra health measures announced yet
- US situation: South Carolina reports sharp rise in measles cases
