Mexico is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with confirmed cases reaching 10,085 as of February 17, 2026, according to the latest report from the SecretarÃa de Salud. This represents an increase of 607 cases since February 13, 2026, when the total stood at 9,478.
Health officials emphasize that over 91% of those infected with the viral disease were not vaccinated, highlighting the critical importance of immunization. The rising case numbers underscore ongoing public health challenges related to vaccine coverage and disease prevention.
Measles Cases in 2026: A Growing Concern
More than a third of all cases confirmed in the current outbreak have occurred since the beginning of 2026, with 3,643 patients diagnosed this year. The outbreak is widespread, with cases reported in 362 municipalities across all 32 states.
The most affected age group is children between 1 and 4 years old, accounting for 1,456 cases. This is followed by children aged 5 to 9 years (1,221 cases) and young adults aged 25 to 29 years (1,128 cases). The highest incidence rate is among infants, with 54.84 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Jalisco Leads in Measles Cases
Jalisco state currently has the highest number of confirmed measles cases, with 2,153 infections reported.
Other states with significant case numbers include:
– Chiapas with 326 cases
– Mexico City with 228
– Sinaloa with 169
– Puebla with 87
Measles-Related Deaths
As of February 17, 2026, no new deaths related to measles have been reported. The total number of deaths linked to the outbreak between 2025 and 2026 remains at 31. Notably, more than 96% of those who died were not vaccinated against measles, according to the SecretarÃa de Salud.
The states reporting measles-related deaths are:
– Chihuahua: 21
– Jalisco: 3
– Durango: 2
– Sonora: 1
– Michoacán: 1
– Tlaxcala: 1
– Mexico City: 1
– Chiapas: 1
INE Implements Preventative Measures
The National Electoral Institute (INE) is reinforcing safety protocols following a confirmed measles case among its staff. Measures include the mandatory use of face masks in common areas, the provision of hand sanitizer and the potential implementation of remote function options. These actions align with recommendations from national health authorities in response to the current measles epidemic, which has a transmission rate of 90% to 95% among unvaccinated individuals.
Contingency Plan and Vaccination Efforts
Following the detection of the isolated case, INE has escalated its prevention levels. An internal vaccination drive is scheduled for February 19, 2026, at the Tlalpan complex, targeting personnel aged 49 and under who need to complete their vaccination schedule.
This initiative complements existing vaccination campaigns in high-risk states like Chihuahua and Jalisco. For the next five days, a remote work scheme will be implemented at the Tlalpan headquarters, with only essential personnel required to report to the office.
Monitoring and Safety Protocols
To minimize crowding, INE will conduct a census across all facilities to promptly identify individuals exhibiting symptoms and refer them for medical evaluation. New guidelines include:
• Mandatory face mask use in enclosed spaces and common areas.
• Application of hand sanitizer upon entry and exit.
• Restriction of physical contact and promotion of adequate ventilation.
INE emphasized that, despite no further internal cases being reported, these measures are strictly preventative to ensure the well-being of employees and citizens visiting its facilities.
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