Americas at Risk of Losing Measles-Free Status Amid Vaccine Hesitancy

The Americas face the potential loss of their measles-free status due to the spread of the infectious disease in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). PAHO's head, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, highlighted the risk of missing key deadlines to control the outbreaks.

Countries must resolve outbreaks within 12 months to maintain their measles-free status. With Canada's deadline approaching this month, and the U.S. and Mexico not far behind, the region's measles-free standing is at stake. The decline in vaccination rates is mainly blamed for the rising case numbers, which hinder the broader goal of global eradication by 2030.

Barbosa emphasizes the need for accurate public information to counter vaccine skepticism. Gavi, a vaccine group, is planning major immunization campaigns in lower-income countries, trying to ensure children worldwide are protected. However, financial challenges threaten these efforts, notably as U.S. funding is set to be cut.