Molecular surveillance of measles and rubella in the WHO European Region: new challenges in the elimination phase

Clinical Microbiology and Infection 23 516e523

Abstract

The WHO European Region (EUR) has adopted the goal of eliminating measles and rubella but individual countries perform differently in achieving this goal. Measles virus spread across the EUR by mobile groups has recently led to large outbreaks in the insufficiently vaccinated resident population. As an instrument for monitoring the elimination process and verifying the interruption of endemic virus transmission, molecular surveillance has to provide valid and representative data. Irrespective of the country’s specific situation, it is required to ensure the functionality of the laboratory surveillance that is supported by the WHO Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network.

Dirk Brockmann
Dirk Brockmann
Professor

Head of Research on Complex Systems Group

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