Pacific island countries and Japan achieve measles and rubella elimination: a milestone for regional health security

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially verified the elimination of measles and rubella across 21 Pacific Island countries and areas, as well as rubella elimination in Japan.

This landmark achievement, announced on 26 September 2025, marks a major step forward in protecting children and communities from these preventable diseases in the WHO Western Pacific Region.

Led by the Regional Verification Commission for Measles and Rubella Elimination, verification was conducted through WHO’s rigorous, globally-standardised process. 
Success reflects years of coordinated effort, strong political commitment, and innovative public health strategies.

In the Pacific, countries overcame significant geographic and logistical challenges to deliver life-saving vaccines to remote island communities. 

Japan’s achievement builds on its earlier success in eliminating measles in 2015, demonstrating the strength of its health system and sustained investment in immunisation.

Through collaboration with the WHO and national health authorities, NCIRS contributed technical input to strengthen congenital rubella syndrome surveillance, which involved supporting ministries of health to conduct a retrospective case audit of suspected rubella cases in Fiji and the Solomon Islands to strengthen country documentation for rubella elimination.

‘This is a remarkable achievement for the Western Pacific Region. Eliminating measles and rubella not only protects children from serious illness but also signals progress in reaching vulnerable populations with essential health services,’ said Kristine Macartney, Director of NCIRS. 

She congratulated the countries, WHO and regional partners on this milestone. 

‘We commend the Pacific Island countries, WHO and all country partners for their dedication and collaboration. NCIRS is honoured to have supported the elimination of rubella and remains committed to strengthening immunisation systems globally.’

While these achievements are cause for celebration, WHO emphasises that elimination is not the end of the story – calling for continued vigilance.

Recent measles resurgences in parts of the region highlight the need to maintain high vaccination coverage and robust surveillance systems enhancing outbreak prevention and response.

This means continuing to close immunisation gaps, particularly in underserved areas, to ensure that no child is left behind.

‘Unity in achieving the goal – through solidarity, … clearly defined strategies and [an] action plan, strong political will, collaborative partnerships, and open sharing of experiences and information – is essential,’ said Dr Ilisapeci Vereti Tuibeqa, Head of Paediatrics at Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Suva, Fiji.

‘Moving forward, sustaining elimination over the next 3–5 years will require renewed commitment to clear strategies and [a] plan of action, underpinned by solidarity and unwavering political support.’

NCIRS joins WHO in celebrating this milestone and reaffirming the importance of sustained action, equity and collaboration in global disease elimination efforts.