A Triumph for Public Health: Three African Nations Lead the Way in Eliminating Measles and Rubella
Cabo Verde, Mauritius, and Seychelles have achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the first sub-Saharan countries to eliminate measles and rubella. This milestone is a testament to their unwavering commitment to public health and a shining example for the rest of the world.
The African Regional Verification Commission, established by the World Health Organization (WHO), officially verified these three nations for their successful elimination of these highly contagious airborne viruses. With this achievement, they join an elite group of 94 and 133 countries globally that have eradicated measles and rubella, respectively.
But here's where it gets controversial: some may argue that eliminating these diseases is just the beginning. Let's explore the journey these countries took and the challenges they faced.
Measles and rubella are notorious for their ability to cause severe complications and even death, particularly among young children. Rubella, if contracted during pregnancy, can lead to irreversible birth defects. Vaccination is the key to prevention, and these countries have demonstrated the power of prioritizing immunization.
The regional commission's recommendation, issued in October 2025, set the stage for this achievement. After a thorough review of comprehensive data, the commission confirmed that these small island nations had interrupted the endemic transmission of both viruses for over 36 months. They also maintained high-quality surveillance systems, capable of swiftly detecting and containing any imported cases.
Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, praised this accomplishment: "This is a major public health achievement. It shows what's possible when countries prioritize prevention and make vaccines a priority." He emphasized the need to build on this success to ensure every African child grows up healthy and protected.
Cabo Verde, in particular, has a remarkable track record. Since 1998, the country has fully funded its immunization program, maintaining coverage above 90% for two decades. Strong political engagement and a focused approach towards measles and rubella have been critical in ending local transmission. The last confirmed measles case dates back to 1999, and the last rubella cases were in 2010.
Honourable Jorge Figueiredo, Minister of Health, Cabo Verde, expressed his pride: "Today, we celebrate a historic moment not just for Cabo Verde but for the entire African region. This achievement is a testament to the power of unity and collaboration."
Mauritius, too, has made significant strides. No measles cases have been reported since 2019, and all suspected cases were thoroughly investigated and ruled out. The country's response to the 2018-2019 measles outbreak was commendable, with renewed vaccination and surveillance efforts. By 2024, measles-mumps-rubella vaccination coverage reached impressive levels: 98% for the first dose and 96% for the second dose.
Honourable Anishta Babooram, Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Mauritius, highlighted the importance of sustained efforts: "Elimination is not the end. It requires constant vigilance and a rapid response to any imported cases. We remain committed to maintaining high vaccination coverage and strengthening our health security measures."
Seychelles has maintained over 95% coverage for the first and second doses of the measles vaccine for over two decades. This achievement was supported by robust surveillance, laboratory confirmation, and health screening at points of entry. The last measles outbreak was contained in 2020, and no rubella cases have been confirmed since 2016.
Honourable Marvin Fanny, Seychelles Minister of Health, expressed his pride: "This sustained effort has faced challenges, but through the dedication of our immunization team, we've kept measles and rubella transmission at bay. I'm proud to announce that Seychelles has been certified as measles and rubella free, a monumental achievement."
Since 2001, countries across Africa have implemented comprehensive measles control strategies. These include providing two primary vaccine doses, conducting mass vaccination campaigns, enhancing disease surveillance, improving outbreak response, and providing clinical care for measles cases. Between 2000 and 2023, these efforts are estimated to have prevented almost 21 million deaths, reducing estimated annual deaths by 79% during this period.
Immunization coverage across the African region has steadily increased over the years. In 2024, coverage of the first dose of the measles-rubella vaccine reached 71%, up from 67% in 2022. Coverage of the second dose also increased, rising from 43% to 55% in the same period. Notably, five countries—Botswana, Cabo Verde, Mauritius, Rwanda, and Seychelles—have achieved the 95% coverage benchmark needed to interrupt transmission.
The Measles and Rubella Partnership, of which WHO is a founding member, coordinates global efforts to achieve a world without these diseases. Led by WHO, UNICEF, and other key partners, the partnership works tirelessly to raise vaccination coverage, fund and implement quality campaigns, investigate outbreaks, and provide technical and financial support for effective outbreak response. Their work also includes supporting a global laboratory network for measles and rubella.
This achievement by Cabo Verde, Mauritius, and Seychelles is a beacon of hope and a call to action for the rest of the world. It demonstrates that with dedication, collaboration, and a focus on prevention, we can eliminate devastating diseases and create a healthier future for all.
What are your thoughts on this remarkable achievement? Do you think it's a sign of progress in global health efforts? Share your opinions and let's spark a discussion!
