• Health & Wellness -> Diseases and Medical Conditions

• 0 Comment

How prevalent is rubella in different parts of the world and what factors contribute to its spread?

Elby Ledeker

Rubella, also known as German measles, was once a common childhood illness worldwide until the development of a vaccine in the 1960s. However, in some parts of the world, rubella still poses a significant threat, especially among vulnerable populations like pregnant women and their unborn children. So, how prevalent is rubella in different parts of the world, and what factors contribute to its spread?

Rubella is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through contact with the respiratory secretions of an infected person. Rubella is still quite prevalent in some parts of the world, particularly in developing countries where immunization rates have been historically lower. In sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, 10% of the population remains unvaccinated, and rubella outbreaks still occur. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 100,000 children die each year from the effects of rubella infection or congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), a severe form of rubella that can cause birth defects in unborn babies.

In some parts of the world, the age group affected by rubella has shifted from children to adults, and outbreaks occur periodically. In Japan, for instance, there was a significant outbreak in 2018, with over 2,000 confirmed cases, largely due to the population's susceptibility to the disease, coupled with low vaccination rates. In Europe, small outbreaks of rubella continue to occur, primarily in immigrant communities, where access to health care, vaccination and information is sometimes limited.

Factors contributing to the spread of rubella are complex and vary depending on local conditions. Poor sanitation, inadequate vaccination coverage, and overcrowding increase the risk of rubella outbreaks. In some cases, misinformation or fear of the vaccine can also lead to lower vaccination rates and greater susceptibility to the disease.

To combat the spread of rubella, the WHO, along with other global organizations, has created a target of eliminating rubella and CRS in at least five of the six WHO regions by 2020 through a vaccination campaign. The WHO also recommends a two-dose routine immunization program for all children, which is proven to be highly effective in preventing rubella infection. Additionally, it is essential to engage and educate communities about the importance of vaccination and awareness campaigns in areas where rubella is still a threat.

In conclusion, while rubella is largely under control in many parts of the world, outbreaks and infectious cases still occur, particularly in regions with low immunization rates. Eradicating the disease entirely requires a concerted, worldwide effort to ensure everyone has access to proper vaccination and education. By doing so, we can reduce the incidence and impact of rubella worldwide and protect vulnerable populations, especially pregnant women and their babies.