Kathmandu, Aug. 18 -- Nepal has eliminated rubella, a highly contagious viral disease as a public health problem, the World Health Organisation, announced on Monday.

The UN health body in its statement said that it is a remarkable achievement for a country making concerted efforts to protect its people from vaccine preventable diseases.

Rubella, or German measles, is a highly contagious viral infection. It is serious particularly for pregnant women as infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or a range of lifelong and debilitating birth defects. But rubella is preventable with safe and cost-effective vaccines.

"Nepal's success reflects the unwavering commitment of its leadership, persistent efforts of the health care workers and ...