UNAM Launches Mass Vaccination Drive Against Measles: A Sign of Broader Public Health Trends
The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), in collaboration with the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), is launching a mass vaccination center to combat the rising incidence of measles. This initiative, scheduled for February 23rd to 26th, 2026, at the UNAM’s Centro de Exposiciones y Congresos, highlights a growing global concern and signals potential shifts in public health strategies.
Responding to a Resurgent Threat
The decision to reopen the UNAM vaccination center comes as Mexico experiences a significant surge in measles cases. Over 10,000 confirmed cases have been recorded between 2025 and early 2026, with over 30 deaths reported. This outbreak underscores the vulnerability of populations with gaps in immunization coverage and the importance of proactive public health interventions.
Who is Eligible for Vaccination?
The vaccination campaign prioritizes several key demographics. Children aged one to 12 years are strongly encouraged to receive the vaccine, as are adolescents and adults up to 49 years of age. A notable exception is made for individuals over 49; they are eligible only if they are teachers or healthcare professionals and can provide valid identification. Up to 7,500 doses will be administered daily.
Logistics and Requirements for Vaccination
The vaccination center will operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. Individuals seeking vaccination are required to bring their vaccination records (cartilla de vacunación) to ensure proper tracking and completion of immunization schedules. The center is located at Avenida del Imán 10, Alcaldía Coyoacán, Mexico City, and is accessible via public transportation, including the Universidad metro station on Line 3.
The Broader Implications: A Return to Mass Vaccination?
The UNAM-IMSS initiative isn’t just a response to a local outbreak; it reflects a potential global trend towards re-emphasizing mass vaccination campaigns. Declining vaccination rates in some regions, fueled by misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, have led to the resurgence of preventable diseases like measles. This necessitates a renewed focus on public health infrastructure and community outreach.
The success of this campaign could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. Key elements include strong collaboration between academic institutions and healthcare providers, efficient logistical planning, and clear communication regarding eligibility and requirements.
Future Trends in Vaccination Strategies
Several trends are likely to shape vaccination strategies in the coming years:
- Targeted Campaigns: Focusing on specific demographics with low vaccination rates, like the UNAM campaign’s prioritization of healthcare workers and educators.
- Mobile Vaccination Units: Bringing vaccines directly to underserved communities to overcome barriers to access.
- Digital Health Integration: Utilizing mobile apps and online platforms for appointment scheduling, vaccination record management, and public health messaging.
- Enhanced Surveillance Systems: Improving disease monitoring and outbreak detection to enable rapid response.
FAQ
Q: What age groups are eligible for the measles vaccine at the UNAM center?
A: Children aged 1-12, adolescents and adults up to 49, and individuals over 49 who are teachers or healthcare professionals.
Q: What do I need to bring to the vaccination appointment?
A: Your vaccination record (cartilla de vacunación).
Q: How many doses of the vaccine will be administered each day?
A: Up to 7,500 doses.
Q: Where is the vaccination center located?
A: Centro de Exposiciones y Congresos de la UNAM, Avenida del Imán 10, Alcaldía Coyoacán, Mexico City.
Did you know? Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
Pro Tip: Check the UNAM’s official Facebook page for the latest updates and information regarding the vaccination campaign.
Stay informed about public health initiatives and protect yourself and your community. Share this information with friends and family to help prevent the spread of measles.
