Baja California Sur has confirmed 14 measles cases so far in 2026, with another 87 probable cases under investigation, according to Mexico’s federal epidemiological report dated April 2. No deaths have been reported in the state, but health authorities are closely monitoring the outbreak as it continues across the country.
The state’s incidence rate stands at 1.52 confirmed cases per 100,000 residents. Combined with 2025 data, BCS has now recorded 22 confirmed measles cases over the two-year period. The 87 probable cases still being tracked could push that total higher in the coming weeks.
Children Under Five at Greatest Risk
Nationally, the measles outbreak is far larger. Mexico has recorded 15,098 confirmed cases from January 2025 through early April 2026, along with 36 deaths across 10 states. Children aged one to four are the most affected group overall.
Infants under one year old face the highest incidence rate at more than 73 cases per 100,000. That figure is roughly 48 times higher than the BCS state average. Babies under 12 months are particularly vulnerable because they typically have not yet received the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which is first administered at that age in Mexico.
Wider Context for the Outbreak
The measles resurgence is not limited to Mexico. The United States reported 1,671 confirmed cases in 2026 as of April 2, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC data shows 94% of confirmed U.S. cases are outbreak-associated, with infections reported in 30 states. The parallel outbreaks on both sides of the border raise concerns for cross-border travelers in the Baja California region.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. The disease can lead to serious complications including pneumonia and encephalitis, especially in young children and people with weakened immune systems.
Health authorities recommend checking vaccination records before traveling. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide approximately 97% protection against measles. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status can request a blood test or receive a booster dose at public health clinics throughout BCS, including in La Paz, Los Cabos, and Loreto.
This report was first published by BCS Noticias.