São Paulo records 41 measles cases in 2026

São Paulo State has reached 41 confirmed measles cases this year, with most infections occurring in children under two years old. The increase in reported cases happened after the World Cup, raising concerns among specialists.

Increase in Cases After the World Cup

Specialists had warned, prior to the sporting event, about the risk of increased infections due to the ongoing epidemic in the host countries, especially Mexico and the United States. Recent cases soared after the competition.

Distribution of Cases in São Paulo

In the state capital, 37 cases were confirmed. The remaining cases are from São Bernardo do Campo (2), Guarulhos (1), and Santo André (1).

Victim Profile and Vaccination Coverage

Approximately 61% of all cases occurred in children under two years old, the age group most vulnerable to the disease. First-dose vaccination coverage increased from 86% in April to 93% in July; the second dose rose from 72% to 78% in the same period.

Symptoms and Mode of Transmission

Measles is a contagious viral disease, transmitted through the air, especially in enclosed spaces with high circulation of people. Main symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and red spots on the skin, which appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. Transmission occurs from person to person, airborne, by coughing, sneezing, talking, or breathing.

Monitoring and Control Outlook

Monitoring carried out by municipal and state teams indicates a downward trend in transmission. In Guarulhos and São Bernardo do Campo, surveillance considers the possibility of ending the transmission chain, which occurs when there are no related cases for 90 days from the onset of skin lesions in the last confirmed case.

With information from Folha de S.Paulo.