Dengue cases rise in Mexico as vaccine approval faces delays

Mexico is experiencing a sustained dengue outbreak, with 3,001 confirmed cases and 7 deaths reported as of early July 2026, according to the Secretaría de Salud. The 2024 season was the worst in history, with 125,160 cases and 478 deaths Source: Excelsior, Milenio. Currently, 28 states report cases, with 77% concentrated in Sonora, Veracruz, Tabasco, Sinaloa, and Baja California Sur Source: Excelsior, Heraldo.

Vaccine delays

The Asociación Mexicana de Vacunología (AMV) has urged President Sheinbaum to incorporate the Qdenga vaccine into the national strategy, citing 61-80% efficacy against symptomatic dengue and 84-95% against hospitalization Source: Milenio. However, the vaccine remains under analysis by Cofepris's CCAYAC, with no availability in public or private sectors Source: Excelsior. The AMV proposes starting vaccination in children aged 6–11 in highly endemic areas Source: Milenio.

Regional contrasts

Honduras reports a 10% increase in cases and hospitalizations, with 1,241 cases in the Distrito Central and 134 hospitalizations Source: Infobae Honduras. In contrast, Panama reports a 23% reduction in hospitalizations compared to last year, though 3,596 cases and 10 deaths have been recorded Source: Infobae Panama. The group most affected in Panama is children aged 10–14 Source: Infobae Panama. Both countries emphasize community prevention and vector control.