The German National Verification Committee for Measles and Rubella Elimination

Since 1984, the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region has pursued the goal of eliminating measles. In 2005, it was decided to also stop the endemic transmission of rubellavirus, thereby eliminating congenital rubella syndrome. Both infections are to be eliminated by 2015. To document the progress and verify the elimination at country level, national verification committees should be established in WHO EU memberstates. In December 2012, the German Ministry of Health appointed the German National Verification Committee for Measles and Rubella Elimination. The commission meets at least twice a year to compile and analyze data on the epidemiology of measles and rubella in Germany and on the vaccination coverage/ immunity of the German population against these infections to assess progress in the elimination goals. Furthermore, the commission indicates whether the available data are sufficient or contain inconsistencies, evaluates the success of key strategies implemented, and advises on activities related to the verification of the elimination process in the country. A scientific report on the commission's findings is to be submitted annually to the WHO regional office. Germany is committed to the aim of eliminating measles and rubella. Thus, every possible effort should be made to reach this goal by the responsible players in the German immunization system. The commission - as an independent group of experts - will critically accompany and evaluate this process.