[The significance of epidemiological studies for progress of measles elimination]

Abstract

The measles elimination goal in European Region should be reached by the target date of 2010. Measles elimination in Europe is achievable as demonstrated by countries that have maintained high vaccination coverage against that disease and have been free of indigenous measles for several years. However, suboptimal vaccination coverage against measles mumps and rubella (MMR) in parts of European Region threatens to delay measles elimination. This report summarizes the significance of epidemiological studies for progress of measles elimination.