Progress Toward Measles and Rubella Elimination - Indonesia, 2013-2022.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Indonesia aimed for measles and rubella elimination by 2023, aligning with WHO South-East Asia Region goals.
• Routine immunization coverage for measles-containing vaccine (MCV) saw a decline between 2013 and 2022.
• Introduction of the rubella vaccine in 2017 significantly increased rubella-containing vaccine (RCV) coverage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on Indonesia's progress in measles and rubella elimination from 2013 to 2022.
• To analyze vaccination coverage trends and disease incidence during the specified period.
• To identify challenges and recommend strategies for achieving elimination goals.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of national immunization coverage data for measles-containing vaccine (MCV) and rubella-containing vaccine (RCV).
• Review of reported measles and rubella incidence data from 2013 to 2022.
• Assessment of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on immunization services and disease surveillance.

Main Results:

• First dose MCV coverage decreased from 87% to 84%; second dose decreased from 76% to 67% between 2013-2022.
• RCV coverage increased significantly from 15% in 2017 to 84% in 2022.
• Measles and rubella incidence decreased substantially until 2021, but surged in 2022 due to pandemic-related disruptions; 26 million children received combined vaccines in supplementary activities in 2022.

Conclusions:

• Indonesia achieved progress in reducing measles and rubella incidence, but challenges remain.
• The COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted immunization services, leading to a resurgence in cases.
• Sustained and intensified efforts are crucial to strengthen routine immunization and close immunity gaps for successful elimination.