New genotype of measles virus and update on global distribution of measles genotypes

Overview

Documentation of changes in viral genotypes over time in a particular country or region can provide evidence for the interruption of the endemic transmission of measles, and documentation can also serve as a valuable tool for measuring the effectiveness of measles control and elimination programmes. WHO recommends that viral surveillance be conducted during all phases of measles control and that virological surveillance activities be expanded to provide an accurate description of the global distribution of measles genotypes. It is important to conduct baseline virological surveillance in all countries; especially those that are planning accelerated control activities in the near future. The WHO global measles and rubella laboratory network provides support for virological surveillance and molecular epidemiology.