Surveillance Guidelines for Measles, Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome in the WHO European Region

Abstract

The WHO Regional Committee for Europe adopted the goal of eliminating indigenous measles transmission in 1998. In 2005, the Regional Committee expanded this commitment to include rubella and set a date for the elimination of both diseases by 2010. Although Member States did make progress, through the implementation of a strategic plan, the goal was not achieved. The WHO Regional Committee for Europe acknowledged at its sixtieth session (‎2010)‎ that the regional goal of eliminating measles and rubella is achievable, and set a new target date of 2015. In the document Eliminating measles and rubella and preventing congenital rubella infection, WHO European Region strategic plan 2005–2010, key strategies are identified to meet the targets for interrupting transmission of indigenous measles and rubella and preventing congenital rubella infection. Strengthening surveillance systems by vigorous case investigation, including laboratory confirmation, is one of these key strategies. In line with the elimination goal, Surveillance guidelines for measles, rubella and congenital rubella syndrome in the WHO European Region are intended to provide technical advice on the design and implementation of surveillance programmes. Surveillance indicators defined in these guidelines will be critical for assessing whether Member States have achieved the level of disease surveillance necessary for documenting elimination of indigenous measles and rubella transmission, and verifying that the Region’s elimination objectives have been reached.