Regional health organization issues measles alert for the World Cup
The combination of rising measles transmission and increased international travel is creating conditions that could accelerate the spread of the disease during large-scale events, according to the UN-backed Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). warned in case of a warning.
It called on authorities to step up surveillance, identify areas of highest risk and ensure travelers have access to information and vaccination services ahead of the World Cup and other mass gatherings.
The number of measles cases is increasing
People everywhere are preparing for the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19. For the first time, the largest sporting event in the world will be held in three countries: Canada, Mexico and the United States.
The World Cup takes place as Measles is increasing worldwideand across America. This year, more than 184,000 cases have been reported in 155 countries as of May 13, and almost half have been confirmed.
The majority, 29 percent, were in the Southeast Asia region, followed by the Eastern Mediterranean, 21 percent, while Africa and the Americas each accounted for 19 percent of the global toll.
Regional situation
Across America, 20,521 measles cases and 25 deaths were confirmed in 16 countries and one territory as of mid-Mayrepresents one quadrupling more than the 5,123 cases in the same period in 2025 and already exceeds the total caseload recorded that year.
Since January, Mexico has confirmed 10,920 cases and 13 deaths Guatemala has reported 6,209 cases and 12 deaths. Canada has reported 1,018 cases and the US 1,952.
Other countries – including Bolivia, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Uruguay– have also reported cases linked to outbreaks or imports.
Most reported cases of measles have occurred among people who had not been vaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.
Travel safely
PAHO recommends this in the run-up to the World Cup countries advise travelers six months and older who cannot provide proof of vaccination to receive a dose of measles-rubella vaccinepreferably two weeks before traveling to areas where transmission has been documented.
They should also be given information about the signs and symptoms of measles and rubella, including fever, rash, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
Those who develop symptoms should seek immediate care, wear a medical face mask, avoid close contact with others and stay away from public places for seven days to reduce the risk of transmission.
Upon returning home, they should inform health professionals about their recent travel history.
Healthy goals
PAHO also called on countries to strengthen epidemiological surveillance in risk areas such as border regions, airports and ports.
The health department further recommends improving active case finding, ensuring rapid investigation of suspected cases, maintaining trained rapid response teams and, if necessary, strengthening coordination for international contact tracing and outbreak response.
