WHO South-East Asia sets ambitious 2026 goal for measles, Rubella elimination

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) South-East Asia Region has extended its target for the elimination of measles and rubella to 2026.

During the 77th Regional Committee Session in New Delhi, member states endorsed a strategic plan for 2024-2028, building on earlier progress despite setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While regionally, we have made good progress on the elimination of measles and rubella, the COVID-19 pandemic did disrupt this progress. I am pleased the Regional Committee has resolved to revise the elimination target,” said Saima Wazed, WHO South-East Asia Regional Director, at the session’s close.

In addition to health emergencies, the committee agreed to triple the region’s Health Emergency Fund to $3 million by 2026 to better respond to crises. The region also adopted a Ministerial Declaration on adolescent-responsive health systems, signaling a commitment to prioritize youth health in efforts to achieve universal health coverage and health-related Sustainable Development Goals.

Several countries, including Bhutan, India, and Sri Lanka, were recognized for their public health achievements, including success in reducing under-five mortality and eliminating diseases like trachoma and lymphatic filariasis.