As countries across the Americas prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ and other mass gatherings, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging health authorities to strengthen measles surveillance, vaccination, and rapid response measures amid ongoing outbreaks in the Region.

In an Epidemiological Alert issued on 29 May, PAHO recommends that countries review their performance in measles and rubella surveillance and vaccination coverage to identify areas at highest risk and implement preventive actions. The Organization warns that increasing measles transmission and heightened international travel create favorable conditions for the spread of the disease during large international events.

“Specifically, and in the context of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, as well as other mass gathering events, countries should increase the sensitivity of their surveillance systems through the implementation of active case-finding to document the absence of measles and rubella cases and to provide information and vaccination services to travelers,” PAHO stated in the alert.

To reduce the risk of international spread during this event, PAHO recommends that countries advise travelers aged six months and older who cannot provide proof of vaccination with two doses or immunity to receive a dose of measles-rubella vaccine, preferably two weeks before traveling to areas where measles or rubella transmission has been documented.

The Organization also recommends that countries provide travelers with information on the signs and symptoms of measles and rubella before departure, including fever, rash, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes.

During travel, PAHO recommends that countries advise travelers who develop symptoms consistent with measles or rubella to seek immediate medical care, wear a medical facemask, avoid close contact with others, refrain from visiting public places for seven days following the onset of rash, and follow measures to reduce the risk of transmission.