The Challenges

Despite the success to date, real challenges remain to sustain current progress and achieve the 2010 measles mortality reduction goal.

Funding

While the gains are impressive, they are not enough. An estimated 164,000 people – 450 a day – died from this easily preventable disease in 2008. Costing less than US $1 to vaccinate a child, the measles control strategy represents one of the most cost-effective health interventions available.

Yet, many developing countries that are facing multiple health challenges have limited funds, making financial support from the Measles Initiative critical. A steep decline in donor investment has resulted in a significant funding gap. Unless conditions improve, the shortfall will put the goal and millions of children at risk. 

Sustaining the Gains

When the Measles Initiative was formed, the greatest number of measles-related deaths occurred in Africa. An intense focus and regular campaigns have yielded incredible results – regional deaths declined by 92 percent over nine years. Recent outbreaks across the continent, however, signal the need for improved coverage and timely campaigns.  To ensure no child goes unprotected and the gains are sustained, measles vaccination campaigns must be offered every two to four years until the routine immunization system is capable of reaching all children with two doses of measles vaccine.

Progress in Asia

The disease burden has now shifted to Southeast Asia. Three out of four children who died from measles in 2008 were in India – the only priority country that has not implemented the comprehensive measles mortality reduction strategy.  These deaths are due to persistently low vaccination coverage and could be prevented.

The Initiative is now working to secure political commitment from India’s leaders, who have shared plans to start campaigns in 2010.