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In 2006, China set a goal of measles elimination by 2012. To describe progress toward this goal, we reviewed relevant policies and strategies and analyzed national data for 2000-2009. In response to implementation of these strategies, including increased routine measles vaccination coverage and province-specific supplementary immunization activities (SIAs), reported measles incidence decreased to a historically low level of 39.5 cases per million in 2009. A synchronized nationwide SIA was scheduled in 2010 to further decrease susceptibility to measles. However, reaching and maintaining measles elimination will require strong political commitment and efforts for strengthening surveillance, increasing 2-dose vaccine coverage to >95%, stricter enforcement of the requirement to check immunization status at school entry, and careful attention to measles susceptibility in those aged ≥15 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates measles incidence before and after mass vaccination campaigns in Burkina Faso in 1998 and 1999. Decrease in total measles case count in 2000 and 2001; Percentage of measles cases that occurred among children aged 5 years or older who were not included in the mass vaccination strategy; Characteristics of areas with high measles incidence.

Abstract: We conducted a measles outbreak investigation in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Surveillance data were analyzed; a susceptibility profile developed, and case–control study conducted. The age distribution of cases peaked among those <2, 5–7, and ≥18 years, corresponding to the age distribution of susceptibles. Risk factors included being unvaccinated (aOR=5.7, p <0.01) or having received one dose of vaccine compared to two (aOR=2.4, p =0.01), being younger, and having a less-educated caretaker. Vaccine effectiveness was 88% (one dose) and 96% (two doses). Results highlight the importance of receiving one dose of measles vaccine, and the added benefit of two doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]