Rubella | 22 Aug 2025

Source: WHO 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Nepal rubella-free.  

Rubella

• About: Rubella (German measles), is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the rubella virus, an enveloped single-stranded RNA virus, which causes mild fever and rash. 
• Risk and Impact: Mild in children and adults, but poses serious risks to pregnant women, potentially leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) in infants.  
  • CRS can cause hearing impairment, cataracts, heart defects, and developmental delays, making rubella a leading cause of preventable congenital disabilities globally. 
• Epidemiology: In 2022, there were 17,865 reported cases across 78 countries.  
  • In 2024, 14.3 million children missed all vaccinations, and only 84% of infants received the first dose of the measles vaccine. 
• Prevention and Vaccination: The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine is the most effective preventive measure, administered in 2 doses to provide long-term immunity against rubella and its complications. 

India’s Progress Towards Rubella Elimination 

• Key Initiatives: The National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign (2025-26) under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) aims to eliminate Measles and Rubella (M-R) in India by 2026 through 100% immunization coverage.  
  • Other Initiatives include Mission Indradhanush and Intensified Mission Indradhanush. 
• MR Vaccinationation Coverage: As of 2024–25, over 90% of children received both MR vaccine doses. 
• District-Level Achievements: Between Jan–Mar 2025, 332 districts were measles-free and 487 districts rubella-free.