Schoolchildren have been asked to wear face masks after an outbreak of measles in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Health authorities announced that masks would be required in schools in seven neighbourhoods of Guadalajara for the next 30 days. The state capital is a key host city for the upcoming 2026 Fifa World Cup, sparking fears that infections could spread when crowds gather.

Mexico is one of a number of countries seeing a resurgence of measles, with 1,981 cases confirmed by authorities this year and more than 5,200 suspected cases. The UK has also seen a rise in cases of the Victorian disease, and last week lost its measles elimination status. The World Health Organisation (WHO) announced measles transmission has been “re-established” in the UK following a surge in cases and falling vaccination rates

Jalisco health authorities announced Thursday that masks would be required in schools across seven neighbourhoods in Guadalajara for the next 30 days.

Mauricio Rodríguez, a microbiology professor at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, said poor vaccine coverage had contributed to the rise in cases.

He added: “With the World Cup, many people are going to be visiting from outside (Mexico) and that represents a risk of introducing even more outbreaks from other places.”

Mexico, the US and Canada are due to host visitors from around the world for this year’s World Cup, which will be the first to take place in three countries.

Canada lost its measles elimination status in November, and WHO experts will meet in April to review the status of the USA and Mexico.

The Mexican government is encouraging people to come forward for vaccination, with queues reported outside vaccination centres set up in government buildings.

Measles usually causes cold-like symptoms followed by a rash a few days later. Symptoms include a high temperature, runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a cough and red, sore or watery eyes.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at UK Health Security Agency, said: “Infections can return quickly when childhood vaccine uptake falls. Measles elimination is only possible if all eligible children receive two MMRV doses before school.

“Older children and adults who missed vaccination must be caught up. The NHS is making vaccination easier, including offering the second MMRV dose earlier at a new 18-month appointment to boost uptake and support elimination goals.”