Baja California states report rickettsia deaths and heat-related illnesses

Health authorities in the Mexican states of Baja California and Baja California Sur have reported significant health challenges due to disease and extreme weather. In Baja California, 53 deaths have been attributed to rickettsia so far in 2026. Health officials reported 600 probable cases, with 120 confirmed. The municipalities of Ensenada and San Quintín have seen the highest incidence. The disease, transmitted via tick bites, has a fatality rate of nearly 50 percent among confirmed cases.

In Baja California Sur, extreme temperatures have resulted in 113 confirmed health cases, including three deaths. Of these cases, 96 were identified as heatstroke and 15 as dehydration. Authorities have urged the population to take preventive measures, such as staying hydrated and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours, to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures.