WHO: Measles, rubella stamped out in Pacific island countries, but risks persist

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Measles and rubella have been eliminated in 21 Pacific island countries and other areas in the Western Pacific, the World Health Organization verified today.

However, WHO's verification came with a caveat, noting that recent measles resurgences in some parts of the region underscored the persistent risks.

“Measles continues to pose a threat to children who have not been immunized, and cases linked to international travel remain a constant risk,” the organization said in a press release.

Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO regional director for the Western Pacific, stressed that “elimination is not the end” but “a call for continued action.”

While elimination of measles and rubella has been verified in the Pacific, Ma’u Piukala said such a feat requires sustained commitment to maintain adequate population immunity across all communities.

“With continued solidarity and dedication, a measles- and rubella-free future for the entire region is achievable,” he said.

In Japan, rubella has been eliminated, anchored on its success in eliminating measles in 2015.

“Achievement of this milestone reflects the country’s robust health system, driven by evidence-based policies and innovative strategies that maintain consistently high population immunity,” WHO said.

“Verification of these achievements was carried out through a rigorous, globally standardized WHO process conducted by the Regional Verification Commission for Measles and Rubella Elimination in the Western Pacific,” it said.

In the Pacific, countries and areas worked together across vast distances and with limited resources to deliver life-saving vaccines to island communities.

“I congratulate the Pacific island countries and areas and Japan for these important achievements,” Ma’u Piukala said.

WHO recommended that countries and areas with lower vaccination coverage must continue to strengthen their immunization efforts and remain ever vigilant, ensuring that hard-won gains are not lost.

In May, UNICEF disclosed that vaccine-preventable diseases are making a dangerous comeback across East Asia, with measles at the forefront of the resurgence.

UNICEF noted that in the first months of 2025, Cambodia, Mongolia, the Philippines and Viet Nam have reported a sharp rise in measles cases compared with the same period last year, signaling that far too many children are missing out on life-saving vaccines. 

Measles is an equity marker; when cases rise, it signals that vulnerable groups are being missed by essential health services such as vaccination.

WHO said verification of elimination is more than a technical success; rather, it also a reminder of the ongoing need to address inequities in essential health services.

 “The path forward is clear,” said Dr Tran Thi Giang Huong, director of the Division of Program for Disease Control, WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific.

 “We must strengthen routine immunization, maintain vigilant surveillance systems and enhance outbreak prevention and response,” Huong said.

He stressed the need to continue closing immunization gaps in underserved areas while safeguarding strong, equitable coverage across all communities.

“By acting with solidarity, we can ensure no child or community is left behind, bringing the region closer to a future free of measles and rubella,” Huong said.

Measles is among the most infectious diseases in the world, with the potential to cause severe illness and death, especially in children.

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