WHO Confirms: Measles Elimination in Uzbekistan Remains Under Control, Rubella Transmission Stably Interrupted

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The World Health Organization (WHO) office in Uzbekistan has provided clarification on the status of measles and rubella elimination in the country, responding to reports previously circulating in the media.

According to the WHO office, claims that measles transmission in Uzbekistan has allegedly resumed are based on the findings of the WHO European Regional Verification Commission for Measles and Rubella Elimination (RVC). These findings are prepared using the annual status report of the National Verification Committee, which relies on official surveillance and immunization data.

Uzbekistan was recognized as having achieved elimination of measles and rubella based on data from 2014–2016, a status that remained until 2018. Since 2019, measles transmission has been classified as “recently re-established,” indicating endemic transmission of the virus for 12 months or longer. Meanwhile, rubella transmission in the country has remained interrupted for more than 36 months, and the country retains its rubella elimination status.

WHO emphasizes that even countries with high routine immunization coverage and advanced healthcare systems can experience measles outbreaks if immunity gaps exist within certain population groups. According to the latest RVC assessment, endemic measles transmission in Uzbekistan remains recently re-established, while high vaccination coverage, outbreak response immunization campaigns, and supplementary immunization activities continue to be implemented.

The RVC recommended strengthening surveillance, including laboratory capacities and viral genotyping, and ensuring that at least 95% of the population receives two doses of measles and rubella vaccines.

The measles situation in Uzbekistan mirrors trends in other countries in the WHO European Region. In 2024, 19 countries in the region were classified as endemic for measles or as having recently re-established virus transmission. Overall, measles cases reached the highest level in more than 25 years, driven by immunization gaps exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To restore measles elimination status, Uzbekistan must halt virus transmission and prevent new outbreaks. The European Regional Verification Commission will review annual reports from the National Verification Committee to determine whether the presented data confirm the absence of continuous virus transmission, alongside sustained high vaccination coverage and effective surveillance. Verification of status may require up to three consecutive years without endemic transmission.

“WHO remains committed to close collaboration with the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan and national partners to strengthen the immunization program. Vaccination remains the most effective means of protecting against measles and rubella, and maintaining coverage of at least 95% with two doses is strongly recommended to safeguard children’s health and prevent outbreaks,” the WHO office in Uzbekistan stated.