Expansion of the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network 2005–09

Abstract

Enhancing measles surveillance with integration of epidemiologic and laboratory information is one of the key strategies for accelerated measles control and elimination. The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network (LabNet) has been developed since 2000 to currently include 690 laboratories serving 183 countries. The LabNet testing strategy follows well-validated, standardized procedures for confirming suspected cases and for monitoring measles and rubella virus transmission patterns. The strength of the LabNet is a strong quality assurance program that monitors the performance of all laboratories through annual proficiency testing and continuous assessment. In the 5-year period 2005-2009, the results of >1 million measles immunoglobulin M (IgM) tests have been reported by the LabNet and, in addition, sequence information on >7000 measles and 600 rubella viruses has been shared. Progress with the development of the LabNet during 2005-2009 is discussed.

Impact of vaccination on the incidence of measles in Mozambique in the period 2000 to 2011

“…In Mozambique, routine data from public health services shows an increase in measles vaccination coverage. This increase in routine coverage is consistent with the results found in published coverage studies 23 , reflecting the country's efforts to control and eliminate measles as part of a regional and global response to the disease. The incorporation of spatial analysis of vaccine coverage showed clustering of districts.…”

Research priorities for global measles and rubella control and eradication

“…The WHO Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network, established in 2000, includes 690 laboratories serving 183 countries [36]. Virologic surveillance that documents the interruption of transmission of measles and rubella viruses represents an essential element of control and elimination efforts and verification of their success [37].…”

“…The turnaround times for reporting serologic test results in most national laboratories meet or exceed the minimum standard established by the WHO LabNet [36]. However, results from specimens collected in remote areas can be delayed due to poor infrastructure for collection, storage and transportation of specimens.…”

Biosensors for Monitoring Airborne Pathogens

“…[51][52][53] The Rubella virus, which causes a rash and a range of symptoms and is termed German measles, is becoming a disease of interest in the United States after being rare for the past 40 years due to the development of a vaccine; [54][55][56][57] it remains an issue in developing nations. [58][59][60][61] Although nearly 50% of Rubella cases are mild enough to not require treatment, serious complications often occur, including blindness and congenital Rubella syndrome, which causes pregnancy miscarriages in nearly 20% of cases. [62][63][64] The average incubation time of Rubella is 2 weeks, and transmission typically occurs through liquid droplet secretions (and thus aerosols) from the respiratory system (especially sneezing).…”