“These numbers reflect the increased risk of us losing the elimination of measles in Brazil again, due to the large increase in cases worldwide and, especially, in the Americas, with a highlight on the United States and Mexico,” said Robério Dias Leite, a pediatrician, infectious disease specialist, and professor at the Federal University of Ceará.
Federal authorities launched a WhatsApp campaign warning residents near international travel hubs, including Salvador, about rising measles cases. The Ministry of Health is currently monitoring imported infections nationwide.
The Ministry of Health registered 65 confirmed measles cases in Brazil as of November 4. São Paulo reported 41 infections. Amazonas recorded 21 cases, Acre had two, and Rio de Janeiro confirmed one.
Earlier ministry data counted 52 imported cases up to October 5. That total included 41 cases in São Paulo, 10 in Amazonas, and one in Rio de Janeiro.
Brazil maintains international certification as free of endemic measles transmission. The country regained this status in November 2024. Health teams are conducting investigations and vaccination blockades to stop the virus from re-establishing endemic circulation.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the United States reached 4,410 confirmed cases and three deaths by October 15. This is the highest level in over thirty years. The Ministry of Health authorized funding for combat efforts in Atalaia do Norte, Benjamin Constant, and Tabatinga near the borders with Peru and Colombia.
The Pan American Health Organization reported that the United States, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and Canada account for more than 95 percent of confirmed measles cases in the Americas in 2026.
Public health officials recommend the triple viral vaccine for measles, mumps, and rubella. It is available for free at Basic Health Units. The standard childhood schedule requires the first dose at 12 months and the second at 15 months.
People aged 12 months to 29 years should have two documented doses. Adults between 30 and 59 need at least one dose. Healthcare workers require two doses regardless of age.
In Ceará, coverage for the second dose is below the 95 percent target necessary for effective disease control. Across Bahia and other states, active case-finding operations continue under national mobilization efforts through November 14.
The State Health Secretariat of São Paulo issued warnings regarding protection before the 2026/2027 cruise ship season. Officials noted transmission risks from travelers moving between regions and countries.