Progress Toward Measles Elimination - African Region, 2017-2021

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Measles remains a significant global health threat, particularly in the World Health Organization African Region (AFR).
• AFR member states aimed for measles elimination by 2020, with this report assessing progress from 2017 to 2021.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the progress of measles elimination in the African Region between 2017 and 2021.
• To identify challenges and recommend strategies for achieving future measles elimination goals.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of regional measles vaccination coverage data (MCV1 and MCV2).
• Assessment of supplementary immunization activities and measles surveillance performance indicators.
• Evaluation of measles incidence, case, and death estimates.

Main Results:

• First-dose measles-containing vaccine (MCV) coverage declined regionally from 70% to 68%, with fewer countries achieving 95% coverage.
• Second-dose MCV coverage increased from 25% to 41%, and the number of countries providing it rose from 57% to 81%.
• Measles incidence rose, and surveillance performance indicators declined significantly, with no country verified for elimination by end of 2021.

Conclusions:

• Despite increased second-dose MCV uptake and averted deaths, progress towards measles elimination in AFR has regressed.
• Urgent, intensified efforts are required to improve vaccination coverage and surveillance to meet the 2030 elimination target.