Summary of the Measles Situation in the Americas (as of November 2025)
This text details a concerning resurgence of measles in the Americas, leading to the region losing its measles-free status. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Key Findings:
* Loss of Measles-Free Status: The Americas have lost its measles-free status due to re-established endemic transmission in Canada (circulation for 12+ months).
* Meaningful Increase in Cases: 12,593 confirmed cases reported in ten countries as of November 7, 2025 – a thirty-fold increase from 2024. 95% of cases are in Canada,Mexico,and the US.
* fatalities: 28 deaths reported (23 in Mexico, 3 in the US, 2 in Canada).
* Active Outbreaks: Ongoing outbreaks in Canada, mexico, the United States, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Belize, largely driven by imported cases.
* Vulnerable Populations: Under-vaccinated communities are most affected,notably children under one and between one and four years old. 89% of cases involve unvaccinated or vaccination status unknown individuals.
* Canadian Outbreak: Began in New Brunswick (October 2024) and spread nationally, with ongoing transmission in several provinces.
Causes & Contributing Factors:
* low Vaccination Rates: Regional vaccination rate for the second dose of MMR was only 79% in 2024, far below the 95% needed for herd immunity. Coverage for the first dose was also low (31% at 95% coverage).
* Highly Contagious Virus: Measles is extremely contagious, with one infected person possibly infecting up to 18 others.
PAHO Response & Recommendations:
* Support for Countries: PAHO is providing support for surveillance, diagnostics, outbreak control, and vaccination campaigns. Experts deployed to Mexico, Argentina, and Bolivia.
* Intensified Vaccination: Suggestion to increase vaccination rates through campaigns.
* Strengthened Systems: Recommendations to improve electronic vaccination registers, sustainably fund lab capacity, and utilize PCR testing.
* Outbreak Documentation: Countries must document outbreaks according to regional guidelines.
outlook & Hope for Re-Elimination:
* Past Successes: The americas has regained measles-free status before (after losses in Venezuela and Brazil), demonstrating the possibility of re-elimination.
* Action Plan for Canada: Canada will implement an action plan to increase vaccination rates and strengthen surveillance.
* Call to Action: PAHO emphasizes the need for political will, regional cooperation, and sustained vaccination efforts to regain measles-free status.
In essence, the report highlights a serious public health concern, but also emphasizes that re-elimination is achievable with concerted effort and a focus on vaccination.
