Measles and rubella strategic framework: 2021-2030

Measles remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with an estimated 9.7 million cases and more than 140,000 measles-related deaths in 2018 (1). It is one of the most contagious diseases and requires maintaining high population immunity to prevent outbreaks. Measles outbreaks can serve as a tracer indicator (a sort of “canary in the coal mine”) of health inequities and can help identify gaps in immunization programmes and primary health care (PHC) systems.

Rubella remains endemic in many countries, and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which has long-term health consequences, continues to be reported.