PAHO Warns 20,000 Measles Cases Could Spread at 2026 World Cup
Updated
Updated · UPI News · Jun 3
PAHO Warns 20,000 Measles Cases Could Spread at 2026 World Cup
2 articles · Updated · UPI News · Jun 3
Summary
More than 20,000 measles cases and 25 deaths have been recorded in the Americas this year, prompting PAHO to issue fresh guidance ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Cases from January to mid-May were four times higher than a year earlier and already above all of 2025, with Mexico reporting 10,920 infections, Guatemala 6,209, the United States 1,952 and Canada 1,018.
PAHO said rising transmission and heavy cross-border travel during the 48-team tournament could accelerate spread, especially because most infections involve unvaccinated people or those with unknown vaccination status.
The agency urged stronger surveillance at borders, airports, ports and host venues, plus rapid-response teams and cross-border contact tracing; travelers lacking proof of two doses were advised to get vaccinated at least two weeks before travel.
The warning comes as the June 11-July 19 tournament across the United States, Mexico and Canada is expected to draw more than 6 million spectators to 104 matches and generate $13.9 billion in regional economic activity.
With measles cases surging, is the World Cup destined to become a global superspreader event?
Can three host nations overcome vaccination gaps to prevent a public health crisis during the World Cup?
2026 World Cup Faces Measles Crisis: How Declining Immunity and Mass Gatherings Endanger the Americas
Overview
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is taking place across North America, drawing a massive influx of international and domestic travelers. This event is happening at a time when there is a severe resurgence of measles in the Americas, raising major public health concerns. Measles poses an urgent threat because it spreads much more rapidly than other viruses like HIV and hepatitis C, especially in crowded settings such as soccer matches and festivities. With its exceptionally high transmissibility and airborne transmission, the risk of widespread measles outbreaks during the tournament is significant, making strong public health measures essential.