São Paulo reports seven measles cases in 2026, authorities advise dose‑zero vaccination

The São Paulo State Health Secretariat confirmed a total of seven measles cases in 2026. Two new infections were identified on 30 June in the metropolitan area near Guarulhos, involving a six‑month‑old infant and a 20‑year‑old mother of a previously confirmed infant. Earlier, three cases were recorded in infants aged 6 months to 1 year, and two additional cases were reported in March and April, both imported.

In response, Brazil’s Ministry of Health recommends the supplementary “dose‑zero” MMR vaccine for children aged 6 months to 11 months 29 days in São Paulo city and Guarulhos. This dose augments protection but does not replace the routine schedule (first dose at 12 months, second at 15 months). The vaccine is provided free through the SUS. Coverage in the state stands at 85.32 % for the first dose and 72.06 % for the second.

The cases are under epidemiological investigation; authorities suspect import‑related transmission, noting that two infected children attend the same creche and the third lives in the same area. Brazil remains certified as measles‑free because all incidents are imported. Regional data show rising measles activity in the Americas, with Mexico reporting 11,771 cases, the United States 2,104, and Canada 1,073 in 2026, leading OPAS to withdraw the region‑free status.