MEXICO CITY (AP) – Mexico's most populous state has announced an increase in health screenings at schools and has recommended the use of face masks for both students and staff amid a rising measles outbreak. This decision aligns with similar actions taken in the state of Jalisco, where masks are now mandatory in schools, particularly in Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, the hotspot for the nation's largest measles outbreak.

As of February 6, there have been 2,143 confirmed measles cases across Mexico, with nearly 6,000 suspected cases. Notably, Jalisco is home to over half of the confirmed cases, while additional cases have been reported from Mexico's northern to southern borders. The health department in Mexico state, which is located adjacent to Mexico City on three sides, plans to conduct temperature checks for students at school entrances and is initiating a vaccination campaign aimed at curbing the outbreak.

The recent surge in measles cases traces back to an outbreak that began in the northern border state of Chihuahua in March 2025. Officials pinpointed this outbreak to an unvaccinated 8-year-old Mennonite boy who traveled to Seminole, Texas, the center of a corresponding outbreak in the U.S. Although the situation in Chihuahua has been largely controlled, confirmed measles cases have now emerged in all 32 states of Mexico.

Macarena Montoya Olvera, Health Secretary of Mexico state, stated on Monday that the outbreak in her state is under control, with confirmed cases reported as relatively mild; the federal government has confirmed 40 cases there. In tandem with these efforts, Mexico City has initiated an aggressive vaccination campaign and, as of last Friday, has reported 166 confirmed measles cases.

In light of the increasing number of cases, the Pan American Health Organization issued an epidemiological alert last week, highlighting a surge in measles cases throughout the Americas. Alarmingly, Canada lost its measles-free status in November, raising concerns that the same could occur in both the United States and Mexico if the outbreaks are not adequately contained.

This ongoing public health crisis emphasizes the importance of vaccination and preventive measures in schools and communities. Health authorities are urging parents and guardians to keep children updated on vaccinations and to remain vigilant about health checks to mitigate further spread of the virus.