By Belize Live News Staff: Health officials are working to contain measles in the Cayo District after four new cases were detected there last month.
The October cases bring Belize’s total for 2026 to 19, the Ministry of Health and Wellness said on Monday. All patients have since recovered.
Health teams are carrying out contact tracing and ring vaccination, which targets people around confirmed cases, along with outreach in affected communities.
The Ministry stressed that measles can be prevented. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, and two doses provide lifetime immunity.
Parents and anyone who has not been vaccinated are encouraged to visit their nearest health facility.
Watch for these signs:
High fever.
Runny nose.
Red eyes.
A rash that starts at the hairline and spreads down the body.
Symptoms can show up anywhere from 7 to 21 days after exposure, and a person can spread the virus four days before and four days after the rash appears.
If you or a family member has a fever and rash, visit the nearest health facility or call 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273).
