Nuevo León Reports First Case of Measles and Surge in Pertussis Cases

Web Editor

July 14, 2025

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Measles Case Detected in a Young Adult from Chihuahua

Monterrey, NL. The State Health Secretariat of Nuevo León reported the detection of the first case of measles in an adult. The individual is a 21-year-old man from Chihuahua who arrived in Monterrey on June 17 and showed symptoms on July 2. After conducting a PCR test, it was confirmed that he was carrying the virus.

In response, the health authority initiated a contact tracing effort and established a sanitary cordon to prevent further spread. Alma Rosa Marroquín, the state’s health secretary, stated, “We are dealing with an imported case; there is no outbreak in the state. We conducted a vaccination campaign, covering 33 blocks and visiting 1,020 households in the affected area.”

Unprecedented Increase in Pertussis Cases

Meanwhile, pertussis (whooping cough) has seen an unusual surge, with 113 cases reported from the beginning of 2025 compared to only four cases during the same period in the previous year. Nationally, there have been 1,100 cases so far this year.

Factors Contributing to the Resurgence of Measles and Pertussis

The resurgence of diseases like measles and pertussis can be attributed to several factors, including decreased vaccination coverage due to misinformation, accessibility issues, or reduced perception of risk. Increased mobility of people between regions or countries can also facilitate the reintroduction of previously controlled diseases, according to Doctors Hospital Auna.

Doctors Hospital Auna, located in Monterrey, participates in the Hospital Network for Epidemiological Surveillance, enabling constant monitoring. When a probable case is identified, the necessary notifications are made, and samples are sent to the State Health Secretariat following the current NOM guidelines.

Rising Covid-19 Cases in the State

Nuevo León has experienced a higher number of Covid-19 cases for several weeks, with 427 confirmed cases in the state and 5,320 across the country. The hospital’s representative suggested that this could be related to the circulation of new variants, but current cases are less virulent and part of seasonal illnesses.

Doctors Hospital Auna emphasized the importance of keeping vaccination schedules up-to-date for both children and adults, particularly against preventable respiratory diseases. They also highlighted the significance of herd immunity, achieved when a substantial portion of the population is protected, reducing transmission risks.

Simple preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, ventilating enclosed spaces, and seeking timely attention for respiratory symptoms are crucial in preventing infections.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the main reason for the resurgence of measles and pertussis? The primary factors include decreased vaccination coverage due to misinformation, accessibility issues, or reduced perception of risk. Increased mobility between regions or countries can also contribute to the reintroduction of previously controlled diseases.
  • What is the current situation regarding measles and pertussis in Nuevo León? The state has reported its first measles case in a young adult from Chihuahua, while pertussis cases have surged to 113 in 2025 compared to only four during the same period in 2024.
  • How is Nuevo León dealing with the rise in Covid-19 cases? The state has seen a higher number of Covid-19 cases for several weeks, with 427 confirmed cases. Doctors Hospital Auna suggests that this could be due to new variants, but current cases are less virulent and part of seasonal illnesses.
  • What preventive measures are recommended to curb the spread of these diseases? Maintaining up-to-date vaccination schedules, practicing frequent handwashing, ensuring proper ventilation of enclosed spaces, and seeking timely attention for respiratory symptoms are essential in preventing infections.