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From Global Elimination to National Control: the Rubella Epidemic Situation in the World and the Russian Federation

https://doi.org/10.31631/2073-3046-2025-24-6-106-116

Abstract

Relevance. Rubella remains a significant public health concern despite substantial progress in its elimination in many countries worldwide. Disruptions to routine immunization programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, uneven vaccination coverage in certain regions, and the presence of population groups create conditions for the continued risk of importation, localized outbreaks, and the occurrence of congenital rubella syndrome.

Aim. To analyze the current epidemiological situation of rubella worldwide and in the Russian Federation, assess trends in incidence and vaccination coverage, and review key approaches to vaccination strategies and maintenance of elimination status.

Conclusion. The analysis demonstrates persistent heterogeneity in the epidemiological situation of rubella across different regions of the world despite an overall decline in incidence. Even in countries that have achieved elimination, the risk of renewed transmission persists in the presence of unvaccinated cohorts and population groups at increased risk. Maintaining elimination status requires high vaccination coverage, effective epidemiological surveillance, and the implementation of catch-up immunization campaigns, with particular emphasis on the prevention of congenital rubella syndrome.

About the Author

L. A. Barkinkhoeva
G. N. Gabrichevsky Research Institute for Epidemiology and Microbiology
Russian Federation

Barkinkhoeva Laura A., researcher at the Research Center for the Study of Viral Airborne Infections

10, Admiral Makarov str., Moscow, 125212

+7 (985) 626-25-19



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Review

For citations:


Barkinkhoeva L.A. From Global Elimination to National Control: the Rubella Epidemic Situation in the World and the Russian Federation. Epidemiology and Vaccinal Prevention. 2025;24(6):106-116. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.31631/2073-3046-2025-24-6-106-116

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ISSN 2073-3046 (Print)
ISSN 2619-0494 (Online)