Belize reports 19 measles cases in 2026
Key Points(5)
- Belize has recorded 19 measles cases so far in 2026, including four detected in October in the Cayo District, the Ministry of Health and Wellness said Monday.
- All 19 patients have recovered, the ministry said.
- Contact tracing, ring vaccination and community outreach efforts are ongoing.
- Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause serious complications.
- Symptoms typically develop seven to 21 days after exposure and include a high fever, runny nose, red eyes and a rash that usually begins at the hairline before spreading across the body.
Belize has recorded 19 measles cases so far in 2026, including four detected in October in the Cayo District, the Ministry of Health and Wellness said Monday.
All 19 patients have recovered, the ministry said. Contact tracing, ring vaccination and community outreach efforts are ongoing.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause serious complications. Symptoms typically develop seven to 21 days after exposure and include a high fever, runny nose, red eyes and a rash that usually begins at the hairline before spreading across the body.
Infected people can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears until four days afterward, according to the ministry.
The ministry said measles can be prevented through the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, adding that two doses provide lifetime immunity. It urged unvaccinated people to visit their nearest health facility to get vaccinated.
Anyone experiencing a fever and rash or who suspects they may have measles should seek medical attention at the nearest health facility or call the ministry's hotline at 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273).
