How to Prevent Rubella Epidemics and Congenital Rubella Syndrome: Lessons From 42 Years of Longitudinal Epidemiology in Osaka Prefecture, Japan (1982-2023).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite the introduction of rubella-containing vaccine into routine immunization in 1977, rubella has not been eliminated in Japan. This study aimed to validate the immunization strategy and highlight crucial elements of the elimination program.

Methods

We scrutinized cases of rubella and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Additionally, we analyzed the national vaccination coverage, seroprevalence, and number of maternal rubella-related spontaneous or artificial fetal deaths.

Results

The shift from selective to universal immunization significantly reduced rubella cases, coupled with increased seroprevalence in children. However, rubella resurged in 2012 to 2013 and 2018 to 2019, which was virologically and serologically confirmed to be associated with impor

SUBMITTER: Kanbayashi D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11841649 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature