Yucatán sees sharp rise in chickenpox infections and heat‑related fatalities in 2026

The Mexican state of Yucatán reported a 63 % increase in chickenpox cases in 2026, with 831 infections recorded up to epidemiological week 23, making it the region with the highest number of cases on the Yucatán Peninsula. The national tally exceeds 30,000 cases.

In June 2026 the state also recorded its first heat‑related death of the year, along with four heat‑related illnesses (two heatstroke and two sunburn). A total of 59 residents sought medical attention for heat‑related conditions, including 43 for heatstroke, 11 for dehydration and five for sunburn. Across Mexico, 920 heat‑related cases and 30 deaths have been reported so far.

Health authorities emphasized completing vaccination schedules for children and vulnerable groups to curb the chickenpox surge and urged immediate first‑aid measures for heatstroke victims.