A joint statement was signed on 18 September by representatives from each of these organizations in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu, Nepal — Nepal’s commitment to ensuring no child dies from measles or is born with chronic rubella syndrome received strong endorsement from its Ministry of Health, along with key partners including the national Pediatric Society, the Lion’s Club International, UNICEF, and WHO.

A joint statement was signed on 18 September by representatives from each of these organizations in Kathmandu. Nepal plans to accelerate plans to for measles and rubella control activities and has developed a strategic plan to achieve measles elimination and control of rubella/congenital rubella syndrome by 2019.

Nepal’s measles control activities have proven to be effective. By strengthening routine immunization services and regularly conducting measles or measles/rubella supplementary immunization activities since 2005, the number of measles cases has dropped from 4,823 in 2004 to just 8 cases in 2013.

The statement also reinforces the joint commitment of all partners; “With high political commitment and strong partnership, we commit to eliminate measles and control rubella and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in Nepal. Let us make Nepal a better place for our children free from measles, rubella and congenital rubella syndrome.”