The Global Measles and Rubella Strategic Plan: 2012-2020 is a plan aimed at eliminating measles and rubella globally. Its goal is to reduce the number of measles and rubella cases and eliminate these diseases as public health threats by the year 2020. The plan outlines strategies and interventions to achieve this goal, including providing routine immunizations, strengthening disease surveillance, and improving access to vaccines. Its purpose is to protect people worldwide from these highly contagious and potentially serious diseases.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is responsible for filing the Global Measles and Rubella Strategic Plan: 2012 - 2020.
Q: What is the Global Measles and Rubella Strategic Plan?
A: The Global Measles and Rubella Strategic Plan is a plan that outlines a set of goals and strategies to eliminate measles and rubella globally from 2012 to 2020.
Q: What is measles?
A: Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, brain damage, and death.
Q: What is rubella?
A: Rubella is a viral illness that causes a mild fever and rash. It is especially dangerous for pregnant women as it can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth defects.
Q: Why is it important to eliminate measles and rubella?
A: Measles and rubella are both vaccine-preventable diseases. Eliminating these diseases can prevent unnecessary illness, suffering, and death, and protect vulnerable populations such as infants and pregnant women.
Q: How will the Global Measles and Rubella Strategic Plan achieve its goals?
A: The plan focuses on achieving high vaccination coverage, strengthening surveillance systems, improving outbreak response, and enhancing public awareness and demand for immunization.
Q: What progress has been made in implementing the plan?
A: Since the launch of the plan in 2012, significant progress has been made globally in reducing measles and rubella cases and deaths. However, more work is still needed to achieve the plan's goals.
Q: What can individuals do to help eliminate measles and rubella?
A: Individuals can help by ensuring they and their family members are up to date on their measles and rubella vaccinations, and by promoting vaccination to others. They can also practice good hygiene, such as handwashing, to prevent the spread of these diseases.