WHO SEARO Sets New Targets for Measles and Rubella Elimination by 2026
The 77th Regional Committee Session of the World Health Organization South-East Asia Region concluded in New Delhi. Member states adopted resolutions to eliminate measles and rubella by 2026, extending the previous 2023 target. A strategic plan for 2024-2028 was endorsed, with five countries already achieving elimination.
Regional Director Saima Wazed highlighted the disruption caused by COVID-19 but expressed optimism about the revised targets. The committee agreed to increase the South-East Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund to USD 3 million by 2026, enhancing emergency preparedness and response.
The Ministerial Declaration on adolescent-responsive health systems was endorsed, focusing on policies and services for adolescents. The committee reviewed progress on universal health coverage and Sustainable Development Goals, discussing traditional medicines, health workforce training, and disease control.
Member states were recognized for public health achievements, with Bhutan, India, Timor-Leste, Maldives, and Sri Lanka receiving awards for various health milestones. Saima Wazed emphasized the unified vision of member states to benefit global health.
Doubts Revealed
WHO SEARO -: WHO SEARO stands for the World Health Organization’s South-East Asia Regional Office. It is a part of the global health organization that focuses on improving health in the South-East Asia region, which includes countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Measles and Rubella -: Measles and Rubella are contagious diseases caused by viruses. Measles can cause a rash and fever, while Rubella, also known as German measles, can cause mild fever and rash. Both can be prevented with vaccines.
77th WHO South-East Asia Regional Committee Session -: This is a meeting where health leaders from South-East Asia countries come together to discuss and plan health strategies. The 77th session was held in New Delhi, India.
Strategic plan for 2024-2028 -: This is a detailed plan made by WHO SEARO to guide actions and efforts to eliminate measles and rubella in the region from 2024 to 2028.
South-East Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund -: This is a fund set up to help countries in South-East Asia respond to health emergencies, like disease outbreaks. The fund will increase to USD 3 million by 2026 to better support these efforts.
Universal health coverage -: Universal health coverage means that all people have access to the health services they need without suffering financial hardship. It is a goal for many countries to ensure everyone can get medical care.
Public health achievements -: These are successes or progress made by countries in improving the health of their populations, such as reducing disease rates or increasing vaccination coverage.
