Mexico City has initiated a large-scale plan to combat the spread of measles, as announced by the Head of Government, Clara Brugada, amid growing concerns about an outbreak coinciding with the FIFA World Cup. The plan includes opening 300 health centers and 150 vaccination modules in public transport and high-traffic areas such as markets and parks. As of last Friday, there were 166 confirmed cases of measles in Mexico City, 86 of which involved minors.

The rising number of measles cases in Mexico, along with an uptick in other countries in the region like Canada and the United States, has prompted the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to declare an epidemiological alert. Health experts are particularly worried about the timing of these outbreaks, as the World Cup is set to take place in just four months, with Mexico, Canada, and the US hosting matches at 16 different venues. This situation necessitates urgent public health measures to prevent a broader outbreak during the event.

The impending FIFA World Cup brings tens of thousands of visitors to the host cities, raising concerns that the measles outbreak could spread further, impacting both local populations and international visitors. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination campaigns and public awareness to mitigate the risks associated with the contagious disease, particularly as large gatherings become more common during the tournament. Ensuring herd immunity through vaccination could be critical in protecting the health of the populations in Mexico, the US, and Canada as the World Cup approaches.