Framework for verifying the elimination of measles and rubella

Overview

The framework for verifying the elimination of measles and rubella described below was endorsed by SAGE in November 2012. This framework builds on the experience gained in Regions and countries, and provides a description of the process of verification and definition of key terms and surveillance indicators, as well as an approach to the integration of rubella surveillance into measles and rubella elimination activities. The framework has been developed for settings where the aim is to interrupt transmission of both measles and rubella; the revisions to previous documents on this topic are tailored for that context. In settings where measles and/or rubella are still endemic, different definitions (e.g. for an outbreak) may be more appropriate.