How Is Lebanon’s Progress Towards Measles Elimination? Review of Surveillance Performance Indicators, 2013–2024

Authors

Lina Chaito, Pawel Stefanoff, Hawraa Sweidan, May Younes, Mona Albuaini, Nada Ghosn.

Reference

How Is Lebanon's Progress Towards Measles Elimination? Review of Surveillance Performance Indicators, 2013-2024. Epidemiologia (Basel). 2026 May 14;7(3):69.

This article evaluates the performance of Lebanon’s measles surveillance system from 2013 to 2024. During this period, the country experienced major outbreaks in 2013, 2018–2019, and 2023–2024. Routine surveillance weakened between these surges, frequently falling short of WHO targets for sensitivity and community detection. While case investigation timeliness and specimen quality were generally acceptable, significant gaps persisted in vaccination data completeness, laboratory testing coverage, and transport and reporting timelines—challenges exacerbated by economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and widespread national disruptions. To align with WHO measles elimination standards, we recommend strengthening outpatient reporting, modernizing data systems, expanding laboratory capacity, and investing in workforce training.

This investigation was led by Lina, a MediPIET fellow, alongside key colleagues working on measles in Lebanon. We originally conceived the idea during her fellowship in 2021–2022, though finalizing the analysis and manuscript required a dedicated effort well beyond her training period.