Measles and rubella in the Western Pacific

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons. Initial symptoms, usually appear 10–12 days after infection. Common complications include pneumonia and diarrhoea. Death may occur in up to 5-10% of infected young children in developing countries. 
Rubella is also a contagious viral disease that is transmitted in airborne droplets when infected people sneeze or cough. Though milder than measles, when rubella infects a pregnant woman during the first half of her pregnancy, there is danger of fetal death or severe birth defects that especially affect the eyes, ears, heart and brain.