RESUMO
Member States of the WHO European Region share the goal of eliminating endemic transmission of measles and rubella viruses, which will also result in the elimination of congenital rubella syndrome. Significant progress has been made in the Region in recent years towards achieving and documenting interruption of endemic transmission of measles and rubella viruses. However, as evidenced by the occurrence of outbreaks, primarily of measles, the achievement of these goals at the Regional level has been delayed. It is essential that all Member States maximize efforts to achieve and maintain high vaccination coverage. In addition, the implementation of the WHO recommendations for elimination-standard surveillance for the rapid detection of outbreaks must be given the highest priority. Adherence to these surveillance standards for enhanced outbreak detection will provide the opportunity to deploy a timely and effective response to cases and outbreaks. This document provides guidance on conducting elimination-standard surveillance and how to implement a rapid and appropriate response to outbreaks of measles and rubella. The reader will gain an understanding of the necessary epidemiological and laboratory evidence that is critical for documenting the interruption of transmission and eventual elimination of these viruses through the established regional verification process.
