including the Caribbean, as of mid-June 2025. According to the latest PAHO epidemiological update this represents a 29-fold increase compared to the 244 cases reported during the same period in 2024. Nine countries, including Belize, have reported cases so far this year. Belize has reported 34 cases and no deaths, while Canada has recorded one death and 3,170 cases, Mexico 2,597 cases and nine deaths and the United States, thee deaths and 1,227 cases.

PAHO said that the outbreaks originated from importations from countries both within and outside the region and that the most affected age groups are children under five and adolescents aged 10 to 19 years. It said that the rise in cases underscores the urgent need to address gaps in routine immunization and it called on countries to reach and sustain 95 per cent coverage with two doses of measles-containing vaccine, especially in communities with low coverage or active outbreaks. PAHO said it is providing technical cooperation to most countries to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, train healthcare workers, and engage with communities to ensure timely detection and an effective response. (Jamaica Gleaner)