Top 5 Takeaways

1. Global Vaccine Introduction: By 2020, 173 out of 194 countries (89%) had introduced rubella-containing vaccines (RCVs), a significant increase from 68% in 2012.
2. Elimination Progress: Rubella transmission has been verified as eliminated in 93 countries (48%), including the entire Region of the Americas.
3. Vaccination Equity: Introduction of RCVs improved substantially among lower-income countries, although vaccination coverage remains a concern.
4. Surveillance and Reporting: All 194 countries conducted rubella surveillance in 2020, but the number of countries reporting cases decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
5. Future Goals: To achieve global rubella elimination, the remaining 21 countries need to introduce RCVs, and all countries must enhance vaccination coverage and surveillance.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Laura A. Zimmerman, LZimmerman@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Zimmerman LA, Knapp JK, Antoni S, Grant GB, Reef SE. Progress Toward Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome Control and Elimination — Worldwide, 2012–2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:196–201. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7106a2

Summary

This report highlights the global progress in controlling and eliminating rubella and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) from 2012 to 2020. By 2020, 173 countries had introduced rubella-containing vaccines (RCVs), and rubella elimination was verified in 93 countries. Despite significant progress, vaccination coverage disparities remain, particularly in lower-income countries. Enhanced surveillance and vaccination efforts are crucial to achieving global rubella elimination.

Methods

The study utilized data from the WHO and UNICEF Joint Reporting Form, which includes information on immunization schedules and the number of vaccine doses administered. Surveillance data for rubella and CRS were collected using standard case definitions. The study evaluated the introduction of RCVs across different income groups and regions, as well as the impact of these efforts on rubella and CRS incidence.

Discussion

Since 2012, significant progress has been made toward rubella elimination, driven by regional WHO goals and increased commitment from countries. The introduction of RCVs has improved, especially in lower-income countries, although coverage remains a challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted surveillance and reporting, but overall rubella cases declined significantly. Continued efforts are needed to introduce RCVs in the remaining countries and enhance surveillance and vaccination coverage to achieve global elimination.

Conclusion

Considerable progress has been made in rubella and CRS control and elimination since 2012. By 2020, global RCV coverage increased by 30%, and one region had eliminated rubella. To achieve global elimination, the remaining countries need to introduce RCVs, and all countries must maintain high vaccination coverage and robust surveillance systems.

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