The Americas are facing a troubling resurgence of measles, with 7,132 confirmed cases and 13 deaths reported across nine countries as of mid-June 2025, according to the latest update from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). This marks a dramatic 29-fold increase from the same period in 2024, which recorded only 244 cases.
The majority of this year’s infections have been reported in Canada (3,170 cases, 1 death), Mexico (2,597 cases, 9 deaths), and the United States (1,227 cases, 3 deaths). Other countries with confirmed cases include Bolivia (60), Argentina (34), Belize (34), Brazil (5), Peru (4), and Costa Rica (1). PAHO says the outbreaks are largely driven by imported cases from both inside and outside the region.
Children under five and adolescents aged 10 to 19 are the most affected age groups.
The surge in cases comes amid lingering gaps in routine childhood immunization and is part of a broader global trend. PAHO is urging countries to immediately ramp up vaccination efforts, particularly in vulnerable or underserved communities, and to achieve at least 95% coverage with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
“Countries must act urgently to contain these outbreaks and prevent further spread,” PAHO said in a statement. The organization is assisting affected countries with technical cooperation, health worker training, community engagement, and surveillance support to ensure timely case detection and effective response.
In spite of the widespread outbreaks, PAHO has not recommended any restrictions on international travel.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has documented 188,355 suspected measles cases and 88,853 confirmed across 168 countries as of June 6. The Eastern Mediterranean Region leads in total cases (35%), followed by the African Region (21%) and the European Region (16%).
Health officials warn that unless swift action is taken, the outbreaks could jeopardize decades of progress toward measles elimination in the region.
