Belize health authorities confirm ongoing measles outbreak response

The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) has issued a public update on Belize’s ongoing response to a measles outbreak, confirming that a total of seven cases have now been clinically identified and linked to the initial imported infections detected earlier this month.

The outbreak began with two confirmed imported cases reported on April 12. Health officials have since traced and confirmed five additional cases, all epidemiologically linked to the first two, with clinical confirmations occurring between April 9 and 13.

As part of its response, the MOHW has identified 22 school contacts connected to the confirmed cases. Of these, 12 individuals were fully vaccinated, five were unvaccinated, and four had unknown vaccination status. All close contacts are under active monitoring to allow for rapid detection and containment of any new symptomatic cases.

The ministry reports that 14 samples were sent to Mexico for laboratory testing and all results have returned negative for further spread. Despite this encouraging news, the MOHW continues to maintain heightened surveillance across the country.

The national vaccination campaign also remains underway, with the Ministry thanking the public for its cooperation and urging continued participation in immunization efforts.

Members of the public are encouraged to contact their nearest health center or call the toll-free number 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273) for more information or assistance.