Measles Vaccination in Guadalajara: Long Lines & Mandatory Masks Amid Outbreak

Despite the intense sun and heat, residents of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, flocked to vaccination centers in early February 2026 to receive the measles vaccine. Long lines formed at the vaccination module in Plaza Universidad, extending several meters from the Line 2 station of the Tren Ligero (Light Rail).

Increased Demand for Measles Vaccination

A similar high volume of people was reported at the Hospitalito de Zapopan, though citizens noted the process remained efficient. The surge in demand follows a recent increase in measles cases and the implementation of new preventative measures.

Did You Know? Over 650 vaccination points were established throughout the state of Jalisco, including health centers, IMSS and ISSSTE facilities, light rail stations, and public and commercial centers.

Ricardo Gómez, a resident of Guadalajara, explained he hadn’t previously considered vaccination. “I’m not in contact with children. My work is in an office and we are usually isolated, but seeing the news, I saw that the outbreak was very strong, plus they made the use of face masks mandatory, so I thought it could be more serious. That’s why I took the opportunity and got vaccinated,” he said, noting the process took less than five minutes.

Concerns About Travel and Prior Vaccination Status

Jazmín Gutiérrez also sought vaccination due to upcoming travel plans and uncertainty about her previous vaccination record. Nurses established three lines to expedite the process, with staff available to monitor individuals for potential adverse reactions.

Margarita Hernández, vaccinated at Hospitalito, emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “It seems irresponsible not to get vaccinated. It’s a very easy disease to prevent and had been eradicated, but there’s another outbreak because people simply stopped getting vaccinated.”

Expert Insight: The rapid response – establishing numerous vaccination points and implementing mask mandates – demonstrates a public health system attempting to quickly contain a resurgent disease. The willingness of residents to seek vaccination, even those who previously felt at low risk, suggests a heightened awareness of the potential severity of a measles outbreak.

New Measures to Curb the Outbreak

As of February 5, 2026, the use of face masks became mandatory for students, teachers, and administrative staff in basic education plants in the municipalities of Tlaquepaque, Tonalá, Guadalajara, Zapopan, El Salto, Tlajomulco, and Ixtlahuacán de los Membrillos for a minimum period of 30 days.

Through 2026, Jalisco has recorded over 1,800 confirmed cases of measles, placing it first nationally. Twenty-two schools have closed due to outbreaks, with three schools in Tlaquepaque closing entirely and 20 classrooms in Guadalajara, Zapopan, Tonalá, Tala, Atotonilco, and Tomatlán switching to virtual learning.

The Secretaría de Salud de Jalisco recommends vaccination for all individuals under 49 years of age, with priority given to infants between six and 11 months and children aged one to four years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should get vaccinated against measles?

According to the Secretaría de Salud de Jalisco, all people under 49 years of age should be vaccinated, with babies between six and 11 months and children between 1 and 4 years of age being prioritized.

Where can I get vaccinated in Jalisco?

More than 650 vaccination points have been established in centers of health, IMSS and ISSSTE units, stations of the light rail and public and commercial centers.

What measures are being taken to control the outbreak?

Starting February 5, 2026, the use of face masks is mandatory for students, teachers, and administrative staff in basic education plants in several municipalities, and 22 schools have been temporarily closed due to outbreaks.

Given the recent surge in cases and the measures being implemented, what steps will you take to protect your health and the health of those around you?