Progress Toward Rubella Elimination - Western Pacific Region, 2000-2019

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Vaccinology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Rubella infection during pregnancy causes congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), a leading vaccine-preventable cause of birth defects.
• The World Health Organization's Western Pacific Region (WPR) aims for rubella elimination, leveraging measles control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize progress in rubella elimination and CRS prevention in the WPR from 2000 to 2019.
• To assess the impact of vaccination and surveillance efforts on rubella incidence.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data on rubella-containing vaccine first dose (RCV1) coverage and supplementary immunization activities (SIAs).
• Analyzed case-based surveillance data for febrile rash illness and integrated diagnostic testing for rubella.
• Reviewed reported rubella incidence trends and outbreak data.

Main Results:

• Rubella-containing vaccine first dose (RCV1) coverage surged from 11% in 2000 to 96% in 2019.
• Reported rubella incidence decreased significantly by 2017 but saw an increase in 2019 due to outbreaks.
• Approximately 84 million individuals were vaccinated through 62 SIAs across 27 countries.

Conclusions:

• High vaccination coverage has been achieved, contributing to CRS prevention.
• Sustainable immunization programs, addressing immunity gaps, and robust surveillance are essential for sustained rubella elimination.
• Outbreaks highlight the need for continued vigilance and rapid response.