RESUMO
Due to the successful implementation of measles and rubella elimination strategies, Mexico announced the interruption of endemic transmission of measles in 1996 and that of rubella in 2008. After a verification process, the region of the Americas was declared free of rubella and congenital rubella syndrome in 2015 and of measles in 2016. In order to maintain the elimination status in Mexico, it is essential to continue laboratory surveillance within the framework of the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network. The Institute of Epidemiological Diagnosis and Reference, through the National Network of Public Health Laboratories, guarantees timely and reliable results in view of the possible reintroduction of these and other emerging pathogens.