Nepal Eliminates Rubella, Highly Contagious German Measles That Can Lead To Miscarriage, Stillbirth

The World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the remarkable achievement and reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating measles and rubella by 2026 in the South-East Asia Region.

After a decade-long battle with one of the highly contagious viral infections, Nepal has recently announced the elimination of Rubella, as a public health problem in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the remarkable achievement and reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating measles and rubella by 2026 in the South-East Asia Region.

Nepal Achieves A Major Milestone In Eliminating Rubella

Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer-In-Charge, WHO South-East Asia Region, "Nepal's success reflects the unwavering commitment of its leadership, persistent efforts of the health care workers and volunteers, and unstinting support of engaged and informed communities, for a healthy start for babies and a future free of rubella disease."

"Nepal's achievement of rubella elimination is yet another testament to the success of the national immunization program ahead of the regional target, which has long been one of the strongest pillars of our health care system. Gavi and WHO's steadfast support to the programme and the overall health sector in Nepal is deeply valued and acknowledged. I take this moment to thank and congratulate all the leaders, health workers, volunteers and community members who've contributed to this achievement. And I call upon all stakeholders to continue their unwavering support so that no child in Nepal has to suffer from a vaccine-preventable disease," said Pradip Paudel, Minister of Health and Population, Nepal.

What Is Rubella?

Rubella is also known as German measles, is a highly contagious viral infection. According to the WHO, Rubella is particularly serious for pregnant women as infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or a range of lifelong and debilitating birth defects.

Is Rubella Preventable?

Yes, rubella is preventable with safe and cost-effective vaccines. Nepal introduced the rubella-containing vaccine in 2012 through a nationwide campaign targeting children aged 9 months to 15 years. The second dose of the rubella-containing vaccine was added to the routine schedule in 2016.

The country conducted four-yearly follow-ups of vaccine campaigns in 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024, including during emergencies such as the 2015 and 2023 earthquakes.

The WHO states that by 2024, Nepal achieved over 95% coverage for at least one dose of the rubella vaccine, sufficient to create herd immunity.

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