Seychelles has officially been certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as having eliminated measles and rubella. The announcement places Seychelles among the first countries in sub-Saharan Africa to reach this level of disease control. Cabo Verde and Mauritius also received the same certification.
According to WHO, this milestone reflects more than 20 years of steady work by the Government of Seychelles to protect children from diseases that can be prevented through vaccines.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohamed Janabi, said the certification shows what can be achieved when countries put prevention first and prioritise vaccination. He added that WHO will continue working so that all children in Africa can grow up healthy and protected.
Measles and rubella are viruses that spread easily and can cause serious illness, birth defects, or death. Both diseases can be prevented through vaccination. Worldwide, 94 countries have eliminated measles and 133 have eliminated rubella.
Health Minister Dr Marvin Fanny welcomed the certification and said Seychelles has remained committed to public health since measles vaccination started in 1974. He said the ministry will continue ensuring that people in Seychelles stay informed and confident in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.
WHO’s verification process looks at disease trends, surveillance, population immunity, lab testing, and long-term programme strength. Seychelles met all these requirements through strong national leadership, a programme that follows WHO standards, and sustainable funding. Seychelles has kept vaccination coverage for measles and rubella above 95% for more than two decades.
Vaccines are offered through routine services at primary care centres and the Seychelles Hospital, supported by targeted vaccination campaigns, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts, combined with strong surveillance and quick action on suspected cases, help protect the community.
Seychelles contained its last measles outbreak in 2020, and no rubella cases have been confirmed since 2016. WHO says that even with the certification, Seychelles must maintain high vaccination coverage and real-time surveillance to prevent the diseases from returning. The World Health Organisation says it will continue to support Seychelles so the country can maintain these standards and keep future generations protected.