Global measles and rubella laboratory network support for elimination goals, 2010–2015

What is already known about this topic? Laboratory confirmation of suspected cases of measles, rubella, and congenital rubella syndrome is an essential component of surveillance for these diseases. The Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network (GMRLN), initiated in 2000, has made substantial progress in providing high quality laboratory surveillance needed to verify achievement of measles and rubella elimination targets. What is added by this report? The GMRLN is the largest globally coordinated laboratory network, with 703 laboratories supporting surveillance in 191 countries. During 2010–2015, >700,000 serum specimens were tested, and >20,000 viral sequences were reported globally. During the past year, the number of laboratories that participated in molecular proficiency testing increased from 22 to 90. Performance indicators for collection of samples for case confirmation and timeliness of reporting of laboratory results are being met by most laboratories. What are the implications for public health practice? High quality surveillance is only possible if suspected measles, rubella, and congenital rubella syndrome cases can be quickly confirmed by the laboratory. The GMRLN’s focus on standardiza­tion and quality control ensures that public health workers can rely on timely and accurate results. Building and maintaining this advanced state-of-the-art global laboratory network, capable of providing real-time disease surveillance, gives support to measles and rubella elimination efforts and surveil­lance for other vaccine-preventable diseases and for emerging pathogens of public health concern.