The upsurge of Measles outbreks globally, especially 2017 - 2019 is highly indicative of gaps in immunization coverage in all regions. Many countries recorded prolonged outbreaks with some being severe while some experienced multiple outbreaks.

Of very great concern is this upsurge in Measles outbreaks that occured even in countries had achieved Measles elimination or were at the verge of elimination. The situation is being further compounded by increase in cases of Rubella which presents with symptoms akin to Measles as in Sierra Leone.

 Concerted efforts must therefore be urgently made globally to reverse this trend, otherwise, the gains made in last decades at protecting children and communities against this highly infectious and devastating disease would be lost.

 Towards addressing this issue, Sierra Leone is planning to introduce Measles/Rubella Vaccine into the country's routine immunization system through a catch-up campaign project in June 2019.