Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, April 2, 2026 – Seven people have died in Ciudad Juárez due to rickettsiosis, a disease transmitted by tick bites, so far in 2026. This figure represents an increase compared to the previous year and coincides with a seasonal resurgence of cases as spring arrives in the region, according to data from the Chihuahua State Health Secretariat.
Rickettsiosis Cases and Fatalities on the Rise
César Díaz Gutiérrez, the municipal Director of Ecology, reported that data from the State Health Secretariat’s Sanitary Jurisdiction indicates an increase in rickettsiosis cases and fatalities within a two-week period. March concluded with 52 probable cases of rickettsiosis in Ciudad Juárez, 12 of which were confirmed. Tragically, seven individuals from these confirmed cases, all young people between 12 and 15 years old, succumbed to the disease.
Preventative Measures and Citizen Awareness
In response to the escalating situation, the Ciudad Juárez City Council, through its Directorate of Ecology, is offering free fumigation services to the community. César Díaz emphasized the availability of personnel to fumigate homes.
“We are looking for ways to have a greater impact. We are constantly coordinating with the Sanitary Jurisdiction on vector control. We have been training, and we are doing our part with the appropriate pesticide,” commented the Director of Ecology.
However, Díaz stressed the need for greater public awareness. He noted that in areas where confirmed cases have occurred, conditions conducive to tick proliferation, such as climate, winds, soil, accumulated debris, and stray animals, are prevalent.
The Directorate of Ecology has extended its free fumigation program hours until 6 PM, Monday through Friday, and on Saturday mornings, to accommodate more residents.
Fumigation Efforts and Public Health Advice
This year, 7,580 fumigations have been carried out, including 56 in schools, as well as in shelters and parks. The majority of these efforts have focused on private residences.
“In recent days, a high school student died. We went to the school to fumigate, however, the bite occurred at home, so the home was also fumigated,” Díaz explained.
He urged citizens to seek immediate medical attention if a tick bite is suspected, advising them to visit a doctor, the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), or the General Hospital.
Rickettsiosis in Chihuahua: A Broader Context
At the end of 2025, the state of Chihuahua recorded 108 confirmed cases of rickettsiosis and 54 deaths. Half of these cases (54) were in the state capital, followed by Ciudad Juárez with 42, Meoqui with eight, Delicias with three, and Ascensión with one. Of the recorded deaths, 32 occurred in Chihuahua city, 17 in Ciudad Juárez, three in Meoqui, and two in Delicias.
Rickettsiosis is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Timely medical attention for symptoms such as persistent fever, headache, or skin rashes can significantly impact the progression of the disease.
Source: https://www.jornada.com.mx/noticia/2026/04/02/estados/suman-siete-muertes-por-rickettsiosis-en-ciudad-juarez-en-2026
