Mexico City Races Towards Measles Immunity: A Million Vaccinated and Counting
Mexico City is making significant strides in its fight against a recent measles outbreak, with over one million residents now vaccinated. City officials, led by Mayor Clara Brugada, are optimistic about achieving herd immunity by March, a critical step in protecting the population from this highly contagious disease.
The Current Measles Situation in Mexico
As of February 9th, Mexico has confirmed 8,899 measles cases during the 2025-2026 period, tragically resulting in 28 deaths across seven states. This surge in cases prompted a nationwide vaccination campaign, with Mexico City taking a leading role in proactive prevention.
Mexico City’s Aggressive Vaccination Strategy
Mayor Brugada announced that over 1.6 million vaccinations are anticipated to be administered within the next month to reach the 95% immunity threshold. Recent efforts have been particularly intensive, with over 40,000 people vaccinated in the last six days alone. Vaccination centers are operating both during the day and at night to maximize accessibility for residents.
The urgency is underscored by recent local data: Mexico City currently has 217 active cases, and a concerning 77% of those infected have no prior vaccination history. Tragically, a three-month-old infant died on December 30th due to complications from measles, a case confirmed just days ago, highlighting the vulnerability of the youngest members of the community.
Collaboration and Communication During the Outbreak
Mayor Brugada recently held a virtual meeting with President Claudia Sheinbaum to coordinate national efforts. She also emphasized the importance of clear and responsible communication, urging media outlets to avoid stigmatizing specific neighborhoods with higher case numbers. The goal is to encourage vaccination without creating fear or discrimination.
Specifically, authorities identified four boroughs with the highest concentration of cases: Gustavo A. Madero (39 cases), Álvaro Obregón (35 cases), Cuauhtémoc (18 cases), and Miguel Hidalgo (14 cases). However, officials are prioritizing a general public health message over pinpointing specific areas to avoid potential backlash.
The Importance of Vaccination: A Public Health Message
“Remember that the vaccine is the best tool, the most effective for reducing the chain of transmission of measles. And it also avoids serious complications, of course, prevents avoidable deaths,” Mayor Brugada stated from the Zócalo, the city’s central square.
FAQ: Measles Vaccination in Mexico City
Q: Is the measles vaccine free in Mexico City?
A: Yes, the vaccination is free and universally available, regardless of social security status.
Q: Where can I get vaccinated in Mexico City?
A: Vaccination is available at health centers and designated vaccination posts throughout the city, operating both day and night.
Q: What is herd immunity and why is it important?
A: Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of the population is immune to a disease, making the spread unlikely and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated.
Q: What are the risks of contracting measles?
A: Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, particularly in young children.
Did you know? Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humankind. A single infected person can spread the virus to up to 90% of those who are not immune.
Pro Tip: Check the official Mexico City government website (https://jefaturadegobierno.cdmx.gob.mx/) for the most up-to-date information on vaccination locations and schedules.
Stay informed and protect yourself and your community. Share this information with your friends and family to help Mexico City achieve herd immunity and prevent further spread of measles.
