Rubella Eliminated in the Americas

By Kelly Young

Edited by André Sofair, MD, MPH, and William E. Chavey, MD, MS

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has declared that rubella has been eliminated in the Americas thanks to mass immunization with the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine. It is the first region in the world to stop the endemic spread of the disease.

The most recent endemic cases of rubella and congenital rubella syndrome were found in the Americas in 2009. There has been no evidence of local transmission for 5 consecutive years, although imported cases continue.

"The fight against rubella has taken more than 15 years, but it has paid off with what I believe will be one of the most important Pan American public health achievements of the 21st century," said PAHO/WHO Director Carissa Etienne. "Now it's time to roll up our sleeves and finish the job of eliminating measles as well."