Alerts
Between epidemiological week (EW) 1 and EW 44 of 2025, a total of 3,989 suspected cases of pertussis were reported, of which 456 were confirmed. Laboratory confirmation was obtained in 391 of these cases. The number of confirmed cases exceeds the figures recorded for the same period since 2020, with the exception of 2023, when a higher number of cases was reported, mainly in the province of Salta. In addition, six deaths due to the disease were recorded, all in children under two years of age. Although cases of pertussis have been reported in 19 jurisdictions this year, the increase observed compared to previous years is mainly concentrated in Tierra del Fuego, Buenos Aires, and the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. Safe and effective vaccines are available to prevent infection by Bordetella pertussis. However, a progressive decline in vaccination coverage has been observed worldwide, regionally, and nationally, resulting in an accumulation of susceptible individuals. Given the increase in pertussis cases observed globally and regionally, health teams are urged to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, early diagnosis, immediate reporting, and the implementation of prevention and control measures, with particular emphasis on vaccination.
The Ministry of Health confirmed 195 reports of methanol poisoning after consuming alcoholic beverages as of this Saturday (October 4th), according to data submitted by the states. Rio Grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro, and Piauí reported their first cases under investigation. Across the country, there are 14 confirmed cases and 181 under investigation. Of the total cases, 162 are in São Paulo (14 confirmed and 148 under investigation). Of these reports, 13 are deaths. "We are facing an abnormal situation, unlike anything recorded in our historical record regarding methanol poisoning in the country. The Federal Police´s involvement in the investigation is due to the suspicion of involvement of a criminal organization related to the adulteration of beverages," reinforced the Minister of Health, Alexandre Padilha. The investigation of the cases in São Paulo is being conducted by the Federal Police in conjunction with control and surveillance agencies, which have already linked the incidents to the consumption of adulterated alcoholic beverages, according to information from the Ministry of Justice and Public Security. The recommendation is that bars, businesses, and other establishments pay extra attention to the origin of the products they sell. Consumers are advised to avoid consuming or purchasing beverages without a label, security seal, or tax stamp.
There is an outbreak of chikungunya in Cuba. Mosquitoes transmit the virus that causes the disease. The CDC currently reports Alert Level 2, which recommends extended or enhanced precautions. You can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites, which includes using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying in air-conditioned spaces or areas with screens on windows and doors. Inquire about vaccination options and availability. If you are pregnant, reconsider travel to the affected areas, particularly if you are close to delivering your baby. Mothers infected around the time of delivery can pass the virus to their baby before or during delivery. Newborns infected in this way or by a mosquito bite are at risk for severe illness, including poor long-term outcomes.
According to a report released by PAHO on September 19, 2025, by September of this year 11,313 measles cases had already been confirmed in the Region of the Americas. The most affected countries were Canada, with 4,489 cases, and Mexico, with 4,553 cases. Of the 23 reported deaths, 19 occurred in Mexico. The most affected age group was 10 to 19 years (22%), followed by 20 to 29 years (19%), and 1 to 4 years (17%). According to the data collected so far, 71% of cases occurred in unvaccinated individuals. The importance of immunization is emphasized in order to reduce new measles cases.
Super Typhoon Ragasa made landfall in the northern Philippines (Cagayan, Babuyan Islands) with winds of 215 km/h (130 mph) and gusts of up to 295 km/h (185 mph), causing storm surges of over 3 m (10 ft), flooding, and the suspension of flights and ferries. Metro Manila and much of Luzon remain closed for school and work, with the risk of power outages and dangerous shores and seas. The system is also affecting Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and southern China, with canceled flights and precautionary evacuations. Travelers are advised to monitor local alerts, purchase travel insurance, and avoid travel in coastal and mountainous areas.