Jalisco achieves 100% measles vaccination coverage in infants under 18 months

Vaccination sites are available for all individuals under 49 years of age who have not yet completed their vaccination schedule

To guarantee collective protection and prevent measles outbreaks, the Government of Jalisco, through the Ministry of Health (SSJ), reiterated its call for the public to get vaccinated and complete any outstanding vaccination schedules.

Currently, the state has achieved 100 percent measles vaccination coverage in infants under 18 months, eliminating the backlog in this age group.

Health authorities urge families to be vigilant, as infants should receive the "zero dose" of the measles vaccine at six months of age.

The Director of Evidence and Intelligence in Health at the Jalisco Ministry of Health (SSJ) stated that while progress is positive, it is essential to strengthen citizen participation in immunizing children according to their age. To this end, the public must keep a close eye on their health records.

“Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. Achieving 100 percent coverage in children under 18 months of age significantly reduces the risk of transmission and provides special protection to this group, which is one of the most vulnerable,” he noted.

He also clarified the importance of the “zero dose” at six months of age, and completing the vaccination schedule with the first dose at 12 months (one year of age) and the second dose at 18 months (one and a half years of age), thus preventing a return to earlier vaccination rates.

Vaccinations are being offered continuously at all health units of the Jalisco Health Secretariat (SSJ), the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), and the Institute for Social Security and Services for State Workers (ISSSTE).

The Director of Evidence and Intelligence in Health emphasized that all individuals under 49 years of age who have not yet completed the full measles vaccination schedule—two doses—should get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“We have sufficient vaccines at our health centers and at the family medicine units of the Social Security Institute and ISSSTE, where they can be administered even if the person is not a beneficiary. We also have outreach vaccination sites, particularly on weekends,” the director stated.

He also reminded the public that measles can cause serious health complications, especially in young children, people with chronic illnesses, and patients with weakened immune systems.

Complications can include respiratory infections, pneumonia, neurological damage, and even death.

Parents and guardians are urged to check their children's National Health Card to ensure they have received the required vaccinations.

To find the nearest health center or vaccination site, the Jalisco Health Secretariat (SSJ) offers the Jalisco Health Line at 33-3823-3220, available 24/7.