Seroprevalence of HIV, HTLV, CMV, HBV and rubella virus infections in pregnant adolescents who received care in the city of Belém, Pará, Northern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Prenatal tests are important for prevention of vertical transmission of various infectious agents. The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), rubella virus and vaccination coverage against HBV in pregnant adolescents who received care in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed with 324 pregnant adolescents from 2009 to 2010. After the interview and blood collection, the patients were screened for antibodies and/or antigens against HIV-1/2, HTLV-1/2, CMV, rubella virus and HBV. The epidemiological variables were demonstrated using descriptive statistics with the G, χ2 and Fisher exact tests. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 15.8 years, and the majority (65.4%) had less than 6 years of education. The mean age at first intercourse was 14.4 years, and 60.8% reported having a partner aged between 12 and 14 years. The prevalence of HIV infection was 0.3%, and of HTLV infection was 0.6%. Regarding HBV, 0.6% of the participants had acute infection, 9.9% had a previous infection, 16.7% had vaccine immunity and 72.8% were susceptible to infection. The presence of anti-HBs was greater in adolescent between 12 and 14 years old (28.8%) while the anti-HBc was greater in adolescent between 15 and 18 years old (10.3%). Most of the adolescents presented the IgG antibody to CMV (96.3%) and rubella (92.3%). None of the participants had acute rubella infection, and 2.2% had anti-CMV IgM. CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first report of the seroepidemiology of infectious agents in a population of pregnant adolescents in the Northern region of Brazil. Most of the adolescents had low levels of education, were susceptible to HBV infection and had IgG antibodies to CMV and rubella virus. The prevalence of HBV, HIV and HTLV was similar to that reported in other regions of Brazil. However, the presence of these agents in this younger population reinforces the need for good prenatal follow-up and more comprehensive vaccination campaigns against HBV due to the large number of women susceptible to the virus.

[Seroprevalence of anti-rubella and anti-cytomegalovirus IgG antibodies in women aged between 16 and 40 years, living in Tunja, Colombia]. / Seroprevalencia de anticuerpos IgG antirubéola y anticitomegalovirus en mujeres entre 16 y 40 años residentes en Tunja, Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the seroprevalence of anti-rubella and anti-cytomegalovirus IgG antibodies in a group of women aged between 16 and 40 years, residents of Tunja. METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional research in women aged between 16 and 40 years included by means of non- probability sampling for convenience. Sociodemographic variables were recorded by applying a survey. An enzyme immunoassay was used for the quantitative determination of rubella and cytomegalovirus IgG antibodies in serum. The statistical analysis was carried out using the statistical program SPSS version 21. RESULTS: The study included 154 women of childbearing age, establishing seropositivity for anti-rubella IgG of 96.1% (n=148) (95%CI: 86.3 - 95.4). CONCLUSION: One in ten women included in the study is at risk of primary cytomegalo-virus infection and one in 30 of rubella infection. Prenatal care using serological determinations of cytomegalovirus and rubella during pregnancy is essential in these cases.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la seroprevalencia de anticuerpos IgG anti-rubéola y anti-citomegalovirus en un grupo de mujeres entre 16 y 40 años, residentes en Tunja. MÉTODOS: Investigación descriptiva de corte transversal, en la cual se incluyeron mujeres de 16 a 40 años, por medio de un muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia. Las variables sociodemográficas fueron registradas mediante encuesta. Se empleó ensayo inmunoenzimático para la determinación cuantitativa de anticuerpos IgG frente a rubéola y citomegalovirus en suero. La estadística aplicada al estudio se llevó a cabo por medio del programa estadístico SPSS versión 21. RESULTADOS: El estudio incluyó un total de 154 mujeres en edad fértil, estableciéndose una seropositividad para IgG anti-rubéola de 96,1% (n=148) (IC 95% 93,0 - 99,1) y anti-citomegalovirus de 90,9% (n=140) (IC 95% 86,3 - 95,4). CONCLUSIÓN: Una de cada diez mujeres en estudio está en riesgo de adquirir una infección primaria por citomegalovirus y una de cada 30 por rubéola. El control prenatal por medio de determinaciones serológicas frente a citomegalovirus y rubéola durante el embarazo es primordial en estos casos.

Rubella Seropositivity in Pregnant Women After Vaccination Campaign in Brazil's Federal District.

Rubella is an acute viral disease that usually does not generate sequels; however, in pregnant women the infection can cause serious abnormalities to fetuses, which are collectively called congenital rubella syndrome. In Brazil, population immunization was started in 1992, but few epidemiological studies have been conducted to assess vaccination coverage and seroconversion since then. The aim of this work is to evaluate the seropositivity of pregnant women to rubella virus after vaccination campaign was carried out in 2008. Serological tests for rubella diagnosis were performed in 87 pregnant women who attended the University of Brasilia Hospital, Federal District, Brazil. Antirubella IgG antibodies were detected in 83 out of 87 pregnant women (95.4%), with an age-independent seroprevalence. Only one woman was positive in IgM serological tests. Our data suggest high levels of vaccination coverage and antirubella immunization in the Brazil Federal District population.

Preliminary multiplex microarray IgG immunoassay for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis and rubella.

BACKGROUND: During pregnancy, toxoplasmosis and rubella can cause serious damage to the mother and the foetus through vertical transmission. Early diagnosis enables implementation of health measures aimed at preventing vertical transmission and minimising damage caused by these diseases. OBJECTIVE: Here, we report the development of a multiplex assay for simultaneous detection of IgG antibodies produced during toxoplasmosis and rubella infection. METHODS: This assay is based on xMap technology. Initially, by singleplex assays, we evaluated the following antigens: one Toxoplasma gondii lysate; two antigenic extracts of T. gondii (TOX8131 and TOX8122); fragments of T. gondii antigens [SAG-1 (amino acids 45-198), GRA-7 (24-100), GRA-1 (57-149), ROP-4, and MIC-3 (234-306)]; two chimeric antigens composed of fragments of SAG-1, GRA-7, and P35 (CTOX and CTOXH); and fragments of Rubella virus antigens [E-1 (157-176, 213-239, 374-390), E-2 (31-105), and C (1-123)]. FINDINGS: A multiplex assay to simultaneously diagnose toxoplasmosis and rubella was designed with the best-performing antigens in singleplex and multiplex assays, which included CTOXH, T. gondii lysate, TOX8131, E-1, and E-2. The multiplex assay showed 100% sensitivity and specificity for anti-T. gondii IgG detection and 95.6% sensitivity and 100% specificity for anti-R. virus IgG detection. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: We found that, despite the difficulties related to developing multiplex systems, different types of antigens (extracts and recombinant proteins) can be used to develop high-performance diagnostic tests. The assay developed is suitable to screen for prior T. gondii and R. virus infections, because it is a rapid, high-throughput, low-cost alternative to the current standard diagnostic tools, which require multiple individual tests.

Preliminary multiplex microarray IgG immunoassay for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis and rubella

BACKGROUND During pregnancy, toxoplasmosis and rubella can cause serious damage to the mother and the foetus through vertical transmission. Early diagnosis enables implementation of health measures aimed at preventing vertical transmission and minimising damage caused by these diseases. OBJECTIVE Here, we report the development of a multiplex assay for simultaneous detection of IgG antibodies produced during toxoplasmosis and rubella infection. METHODS This assay is based on xMap technology. Initially, by singleplex assays, we evaluated the following antigens: one Toxoplasma gondii lysate; two antigenic extracts of T. gondii (TOX8131 and TOX8122); fragments of T. gondii antigens [SAG-1 (amino acids 45-198), GRA-7 (24-100), GRA-1 (57-149), ROP-4, and MIC-3 (234-306)]; two chimeric antigens composed of fragments of SAG-1, GRA-7, and P35 (CTOX and CTOXH); and fragments of Rubella virus antigens [E-1 (157-176, 213-239, 374-390), E-2 (31-105), and C (1-123)]. FINDINGS A multiplex assay to simultaneously diagnose toxoplasmosis and rubella was designed with the best-performing antigens in singleplex and multiplex assays, which included CTOXH, T. gondii lysate, TOX8131, E-1, and E-2. The multiplex assay showed 100% sensitivity and specificity for anti-T. gondii IgG detection and 95.6% sensitivity and 100% specificity for anti-R. virus IgG detection. MAIN CONCLUSIONS We found that, despite the difficulties related to developing multiplex systems, different types of antigens (extracts and recombinant proteins) can be used to develop high-performance diagnostic tests. The assay developed is suitable to screen for prior T. gondii and R. virus infections, because it is a rapid, high-throughput, low-cost alternative to the current standard diagnostic tools, which require multiple individual tests.

Seroprevalencia de rubeola en Colombia: un analisis por cohorte de nacimiento / Soroprevalencia de rubeola em Colombia: analise por coorte de nascimento / Seroprevalence of rubella in Colombia: a birth-year cohort analysis

OBJETIVO : Estimar la seroprevalencia de rubéola y factores asociados. METODOS : Estudio de seroprevalencia poblacional con una muestra aleatoria de 2.124 individuos de seis a 64 años, representativa por edad, sexo y área en Medellín, Colombia, 2009. Se analizó la asociación de variables biológicas y socioeconómicas con la seroprotección para rubéola, según la cohorte del año de nacimiento antes (1954 a 1990) y después (1991 a 2003) del inicio de la vacunación universal. Se determinaron los títulos de IgG con pruebas de alta sensibilidad (AxSYM ® Rubella IgG – Laboratorio Abbott) y especificidad (VIDAS RUB IgG II ® – Laboratorio BioMerieux). Se estimaron proporciones y promedios ponderados derivados de un muestreo complejo incluyendo un factor de corrección por las diferencias en la participación por sexo. Se analizó la asociación de la protección por grupos de variables biológicas y sociales con un modelo de regresión logística, según la cohorte de nacimiento. RESULTADOS : Los títulos promedio de IgG fueron más altos en los nacidos antes del inicio de la vacunación (media 110 UI/ml; IC95% 100,5;120,2) que en los nacidos después (media 64 UI/ml; IC95% 54,4;72,8), p = 0,000. La proporción de protección fue creciente de 88,9% en los nacidos en 1990-1994, de 89,2% en 1995-1999 y de 92,1% en 2000 a 2003, posiblemente relacionado con la administración del refuerzo desde 1998. En los nacidos antes del inicio de la vacunación, la seroprotección estuvo asociada con el antecedente de contacto con casos (RD 2,6; IC95% 1,1;5,9), el estado de salud (RD 2,5; IC95% 1,05;6,0), el nivel de escolaridad (RD 0,2; IC95% 0,08;0,8) y los años de residencia del hogar en el barrio (RD 0,96; IC95% 0,98;1,0), luego de ajustar por todas las variables. En los nacidos después ...

OBJETIVO : Estimar a soroprevalência de rubéola e fatores associados. MÉTODOS : Estudo de soroprevalência em população a través de uma amostra aleatória de 2.124 indivíduos de seis a 64 anos, representativa por idade, sexo e área em Medellín, Colômbia, 2009. Foi analisada a associação de variáveis biológicas e socioeconômicas com a soroproteção para rubéola, de acordo com a coorte de nascimento antes (1954 a 1990) e depois (1991 a 2003) do inicio da vacinação universal. Foram determinados os títulos de IgG com testes de alta sensibilidade (AxSYM® Rubella IgG – Laboratório Abbott) e especificidade (VIDAS RUB IgG II® – Laboratório BioMerieux). Foram estimadas proporções e médias ponderadas derivadas de amostragem complexa incluindo um fator de correição pelas diferenças na participação por sexo. Foi analisada a associação da proteção por grupos de variáveis biológicas e sociais com um modelo de regressão logística, segundo a coorte de nascimento. RESULTADOS : As médias dos títulos de IgG foram maiores nos nascidos antes do inicio da vacinação (média 110UI/ml; IC95% 100,5;120,2) do que nos nascidos posteriormente (média 64 UI/ml; IC 95% 54,4;72,8), p = 0,000. A proporção de proteção foi crescente de 88,9% nos nascidos em 1990-1994, de 89,2% em 1995-1999 e de 92,1% em 2000 a 2003, provavelmente relacionado à administração do reforço desde 1998. A soroproteção esteve associada nos nascidos antes com o fato de ter contato com casos (RD 2,6; IC95% 1,1;5,9), o estado de saúde (RD 2,5; IC95% 1,05;6,0), o nível de escolaridade (RD 0,2; IC95% 0,08;0,8) e os anos morando no bairro (RD 0,96; IC95% 0,98;1,0), após ajuste por todas ...

OBJECTIVE : To estimate the seroprevalence of rubella and associated factors. METHODS : Population-based seroprevalence study in a random sample of 2,124 individuals, aged six to 64 years, representative by age, sex and area in Medellín, Colombia, 2009. Biological and socioeconomic variables were analyzed for their association with serum protection against rubella, according to birth-year cohort; those born before (1954-1990) and after (1991-2003) the introduction of universal immunization. Titer of IgG antibodies against the rubella virus was detected using a high sensitivity (AxSYM®Rubella IgG – Abbott Laboratories) and a high specificity test (VIDAS RUB IgG II®– BioMerieux Laboratories). Proportions and weighted averages derived from a complex sample, including a correction factor for differences in gender participation, were estimated. Association with protection for groups of biological and social variables according to birth cohort was analyzed using a logistic regression model. RESULTS : Titers of IgG antibodies were higher in those born before (mean 110 UI/ml, 95%CI 100.5;120.2) compared to those born after (mean 64 UI/ml; 95%CI 54.4;72.8; p = 0.000) the introduction of mass immunization. The proportion of protection increased from 88.9% in those born 1990-1994, to 89.2% in those born 1995-1999 and to 92.1% in those born between 2000 and 2003, possibly due to boosters being administered from 1998 onwards. In those born before the introduction of the immunization, seroprotection was associated with previous contact with cases (OR 2.6; 95%CI 1.1;5.9), self- perceived health status (OR 2.5; 95%CI 1.05;6.0), educational level (OR 0.2; 95%CI 0.08;0.8) and years of residence in the neighborhood (RD 0,96; 95%CI 0.98;1.0) after adjusting for all variables. In those born after, serum protection was associated with effective sleep time (OR 1,4; 95%CI 1.09;1.8) and self-perceived health status (OR 5.5; 95%CI ...

[Seroprevalence of rubella in Colombia: a birth-year cohort analysis]. / Seroprevalencia de rubeola en Colombia: un análisis por cohorte de nacimiento.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the seroprevalence of rubella and associated factors. METHODS: Population-based seroprevalence study in a random sample of 2,124 individuals, aged six to 64 years, representative by age, sex and area in Medellín, Colombia, 2009. Biological and socioeconomic variables were analyzed for their association with serum protection against rubella, according to birth-year cohort; those born before (1954-1990) and after (1991-2003) the introduction of universal immunization. Titer of IgG antibodies against the rubella virus was detected using a high sensitivity (AxSYM® Rubella IgG--Abbott Laboratories) and a high specificity test (VIDAS RUB IgG II®--BioMerieux Laboratories). Proportions and weighted averages derived from a complex sample, including a correction factor for differences in gender participation, were estimated. Association with protection for groups of biological and social variables according to birth cohort was analyzed using a logistic regression model. RESULTS: Titers of IgG antibodies were higher in those born before (mean 110 UI/ml, 95%CI 100.5;120.2) compared to those born after (mean 64 UI/ml; 95%CI 54.4;72.8; p = 0.000) the introduction of mass immunization. The proportion of protection increased from 88.9% in those born 1990-1994, to 89.2% in those born 1995-1999 and to 92.1% in those born between 2000 and 2003, possibly due to boosters being administered from 1998 onwards. In those born before the introduction of the immunization, seroprotection was associated with previous contact with cases (OR 2.6; 95%CI 1.1;5.9), self-perceived health status (OR 2.5; 95%CI 1.05;6.0), educational level (OR 0.2; 95%CI 0.08;0.8) and years of residence in the neighborhood (RD 0,96; 95%CI 0.98;1.0) after adjusting for all variables. In those born after, serum protection was associated with effective sleep time (OR 1,4; 95%CI 1.09;1.8) and self-perceived health status (OR 5.5; 95%CI 1.2;23.8). CONCLUSIONS: The seroprevalence profile changed with the mass immunization plan, with higher titers of IgG antibodies in those born before the start of the immunization. It is recommended that the level of long-term protection be monitored and concerted action taken to improve potentially associated socioeconomic conditions.

Evaluación de la seroprotección contra sarampión, rubéola y hepatitis B en niños menores de cinco años del Perú, 2011 / Evaluation of the seroprotection against measles, rubella and hepatitis B in children under 5 years of age in Peru, 2011

Objetivos. Estimar la prevalencia de anticuerpos contra sarampión, rubéola y hepatitis B en niños de 1 a 4 años del Perú. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una encuesta nacional basada en la aplicación de un cuestionario y obtención de muestra de sangre capilar en papel de filtro para el estudio de anticuerpos contra sarampión, rubéola y hepatitis B en niños de 1 a 4 años. Se utilizó un muestreo probabilístico, estratificado y multietápico con inferencia a nivel nacional y siete ámbitos de estudio: Lima metropolitana, resto de costa urbana, costa rural, sierra urbana, sierra rural, selva urbana y selva rural. Las muestras de sangre capilar fueron procesadas siguiendo protocolos estandarizados para la determinación de anticuerpos mediante técnica de ELISA utilizando reactivos comerciales. Resultados. Se encontró una prevalencia nacional de 91,6% (IC95%: 90,6-92,7%), 91,3% (IC 95%: 90,3-92,4%) y 95,9% (IC 95%: 95,0-96,8%) para anticuerpos contra sarampión, rubéola y hepatitis B respectivamente. No se evidenció diferencias significativas de las prevalencias entre los diferentes ámbitos de estudio y en los diferentes estratos socioeconómicos de los conglomerados. Conclusiones. En niños de 1 a 4 años se ha estimado una prevalencia nacional de anticuerpos contra sarampión y rubéola entre 90-93%, mientras que para anticuerpos contra hepatitis B (anti-HBsAg) entre 95-97%.

Objectives. To estimate the prevalence of antibodies against measles, rubella and hepatitis B in children aged between 1 and 4 years in Peru. Materials and methods. A national survey was conducted based on a questionnaire and capillary blood sample taken on filter paper in order to study antibodies against measles, rubella and hepatitis B in children from 1 to 4 years of age. A stratified, multistage, probability sampling design was used to be representative at the national level and at level of seven ambits, including the Metropolitan Lima Area, the rest of the urban coast, the rural coast, the urban highlands, the rural highlands, the urban jungle and the rural jungle. The capillary blood samples were processed according to the standardized protocols for detection of antibodies using the ELISA technique and commercial reagents. Results. The survey showed a national prevalence of antibodies against measles, rubella and hepatitis B of 91.6% (CI 95%: 90.6%; 92.7%), 91.3% (CI 95%: 90.3%; 92.4%) and 95.9% (CI 95%: 95.0%; 96.8%) respectively. There was no evidence of significant differences in the prevalence among the ambits of study or among the socioeconomic strata of the conglomerates for any of the three types of antibodies. Conclusions. In children from 1 to 4 years of age, the national prevalence of antibodies against measles and Rubella was between 90-93%, while the prevalence of antibodies against Hepatitis B (anti-HBsAg) was between 95-97%.

Prevalence of toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella IgG antibodies in Hatay women and children.

OBJECTIVE: Toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella may cause congenital infections. The aim of this study is to investigate toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella IgG antibodies in women and children who were admitted to the Hatay Women and Children Hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2009. METHODS: Levels of IgG antibodies for toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella established with chemiluminescence immunoassay (Architect i2000, Abbott, USA) method were evaluated, retrospectively. RESULTS: The results were obtained from 1103 cases. Seropositivity of IgG antibodies for toxoplasmosis (n = 743), cytomegalovirus (n = 929) and rubella (n = 746) were 59.9%, 98.9% and 93.6%, respectively CONCLUSION: Routine serological screening should be recommended in women of childbearing age. Seronegative subjects should be vaccinated for rubella and educated for protection from toxoplasmosis.

[Herd immunity against rubella according to a survey of the population in Medellin, Colombia]. / Inmunidad colectiva contra la rubéola según una encuesta poblacional en Medellín, Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: Calculate the critical proportion (Pc) for achieving herd immunity based on a 2009 population study conducted in Medellin, Colombia, by age, globally and disaggregated by sex, location, and socioeconomic stratum. METHODS: A survey of seroprevalence in the population was conducted by means of a random sample of 2 124 individuals aged 6 to 64 that was representative of age, sex, and location. The basic reproduction number was estimated using a quadratic regression of the average IgG titers for rubella by age in unvaccinated individuals with titers greater than or equal to 15 IU/ml. The effective reproduction number (Re) was calculated with the data on the weighted proportion of protection by age, sex, location, and socioeconomic stratum. RESULTS: Overall, the Pc was 90.0% (95% CI, 88.6-95.2%) and the Re was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.8-1.8), for a weighted proportion of protection of 89.4% (95% CI, 86.8- 91.6%). Protection was lower than the expected Pc in both sexes, in high and low socioeconomic strata, and in the rural area. In the urban area, protection was greater than the Pc (89.4%, with a 95% CI, 86.6-91.7%, compared to 87.4% and a 95% CI, 85.2-87.8%). CONCLUSIONS: The urban area has made progress toward herd immunity, but the overall proportion of protection in women, the rural area, and the high socioeconomic strata must be increased. The effective number may be greater than one, indicating the potential for the spread of the disease.

Inmunidad colectiva contra la rubéola según una encuesta poblacional en Medellín, Colombia / Herd immunity against rubella according to a survey of the population in Medellin, Colombia

Objetivo. Calcular la proporción crítica (Pc) para el logro de la inmunidad colectiva a partir de un estudio poblacional realizado en el 2009 en Medellín, Colombia, por edad, en forma global y desagregada por sexo, zona de procedencia y estrato socioeconómico. Métodos. Se realizó una encuesta de seroprevalencia poblacional, con una muestra aleatoria de 2 124 individuos de 6 a 64 años, representativa por edad, sexo y zona. Se estimó el número básico de reproducción utilizando una regresión cuadrática de los títulos promedio de IgG contra la rubéola por edad en los individuos no vacunados con títulos mayores o iguales a 15 UI/ml. Se calculó el número efectivo de reproducción (Re ) con los datos de la proporción ponderada de protección por edad, sexo, zona y estrato socioeconómico. Resultados. En forma global, la Pc fue de 90,0% (IC95% 88,6­95,2) y el Re de 0,95 (IC95% 0,8­1,8), para una proporción ponderada de protección de 89,4% (IC95% 86,8­91,6). La protección fue menor que la Pc esperada en ambos sexos, en los estratos socioeconómicos alto y bajo, y en la zona rural. En la zona urbana la protección fue mayor que la Pc (89,4%, IC95% 86,6­91,7 en comparación con 87,4%, IC95% 85,2­87,8). Conclusiones. En la zona urbana se ha avanzado hacia la inmunidad colectiva, pero se requiere aumentar la proporción de protección en forma global, en las mujeres, en la zona rural y en los individuos de estrato socioeconómico alto. El número efectivo puede tener un valor mayor de uno, lo que indica el potencial de propagación de la enfermedad.

Objective. Calculate the critical proportion (Pc ) for achieving herd immunity based on a 2009 population study conducted in Medellin, Colombia, by age, globally and disaggregated by sex, location, and socioeconomic stratum. Methods. A survey of seroprevalence in the population was conducted by means of a random sample of 2 124 individuals aged 6 to 64 that was representative of age, sex, and location. The basic reproduction number was estimated using a quadratic regression of the average IgG titers for rubella by age in unvaccinated individuals with titers greater than or equal to 15 IU/ml. The effective reproduction number (Re) was calculated with the data on the weighted proportion of protection by age, sex, location, and socioeconomic stratum. Results. Overall, the Pc was 90.0% (95% CI, 88.6­95.2%) and the Re was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.8­1.8), for a weighted proportion of protection of 89.4% (95% CI, 86.8­ 91.6%). Protection was lower than the expected Pc in both sexes, in high and low socioeconomic strata, and in the rural area. In the urban area, protection was greater than the Pc (89.4%, with a 95% CI, 86.6­91.7%, compared to 87.4% and a 95% CI, 85.2­87.8%). Conclusions. The urban area has made progress toward herd immunity, but the overall proportion of protection in women, the rural area, and the high socioeconomic strata must be increased. The effective number may be greater than one, indicating the potential for the spread of the disease.

Prevalence of toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella IgG antibodies in hatay women and children / Prevalencia de los anticuerpos IgG contra la toxoplasmosis, el citomegalovirus y la rubéola en mujeres y niños de hatay

OBJECTIVE: Toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella may cause congenital infections. The aim of this study is to investigate toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella IgG antibodies in women and children who were admitted to the Hatay Women and Children Hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2009. METHODS: Levels of IgG antibodies for toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus and rubella established with chemiluminescence immunoassay (Architect i2000, Abbott, USA) method were evaluated, retrospectively. RESULTS: The results were obtained from 1103 cases. Seropositivity of IgG antibodies for toxoplasmosis (n = 743), cytomegalovirus (n = 929) and rubella (n = 746) were 59.9%, 98.9% and 93.6%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Routine serological screening should be recommended in women of childbearing age. Seronegative subjects should be vaccinated for rubella and educated for protection from toxoplasmosis.

OBJETIVO: La toxoplasmosis, el citomegalovirus y la rubéola pueden causar infecciones congénitas. El objetivo de este estudio es investigar los anticuerpos IgG contra la toxoplasmosis, el citomegalovirus y la rubéola en las mujeres y ninos ingresados en el Hospital de Hatay para Mujeres y Niños, entre el 1ero de enero y el 31 de diciembre de 2009. MÉTODOS: Los niveles de anticuerpos IgG de la toxoplasmosis, el citomegalovirus, y la rubéola establecidos mediante el método de inmunoensayos por quimioluminiscencia (Architect i2000, Abbott, USA), fueron evaluados retrospectivamente. RESULTADOS: Los resultados se obtuvieron de 1103 casos. La seropositividad de anticuerpos de IgG para la toxoplasmosis (n = 743), el citomegalovirus (n = 929) y la rubéola (n = 746) fue de 59.9%, 98.9% y 93.6%, respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN: Deben recomendarse tamizajes serológicos de rutina para las mujeres en ead de maternidad. Los sujetos seronegativos deben ser vacunados contra la rubéola y educados para protegerse contra la toxoplasmosis.

[Evaluation of the seroprotection against measles, rubella and hepatitis B in children under 5 years of age in Peru, 2011]. / Evaluación de la seroprotección contra sarampión, rubéola y hepatitis B en niños menores de cinco años del Perú, 2011.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of antibodies against measles, rubella and hepatitis B in children aged between 1 and 4 years in Peru. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A national survey was conducted based on a questionnaire and capillary blood sample taken on filter paper in order to study antibodies against measles, rubella and hepatitis B in children from 1 to 4 years of age. A stratified, multistage, probability sampling design was used to be representative at the national level and at level of seven ambits, including the Metropolitan Lima Area, the rest of the urban coast, the rural coast, the urban highlands, the rural highlands, the urban jungle and the rural jungle. The capillary blood samples were processed according to the standardized protocols for detection of antibodies using the ELISA technique and commercial reagents. RESULTS: The survey showed a national prevalence of antibodies against measles, rubella and hepatitis B of 91.6% (CI 95%: 90.6%; 92.7%), 91.3% (CI 95%: 90.3%; 92.4%) and 95.9% (CI 95%: 95.0%; 96.8%) respectively. There was no evidence of significant differences in the prevalence among the ambits of study or among the socioeconomic strata of the conglomerates for any of the three types of antibodies. CONCLUSIONS: In children from 1 to 4 years of age, the national prevalence of antibodies against measles and Rubella was between 90-93%, while the prevalence of antibodies against Hepatitis B (anti-HBsAg) was between 95-97%.

[The seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against rubella (German measles) in 10-49 year-old women from Cartagena, Colombia]. / Seroprevalencia de IgG contra Rubeola en mujeres entre 10-49 años, en Cartagena, Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: Determining immunoglobulin G (IgG) against the rubella virus (RV) causing German measles in Cartagena and whether vaccination goals against German measles have been achieved. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out during 2009; females aged 10-49 years were included. Selection was randomised. Socio-demographic variables were recorded in face-to-face interviews. IgG against RV was detected by ELISA. X2 and Fisher's exact tests were used for comparing variables. A logistic regression model was used for correlating data. RESULTS: A total of 1,528 serum samples were analysed; 93 % (n=1,422) were seropositive. The lowest seropositivity was reported in girls aged 10-14. Differences regarding seroprevalence percentages were statistically significant between age ranges (p<0.001) and employment (p=0.042). A high risk of seronegativity was reported for girls aged 10-14 (OR=0.27; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Seroprevalence goals against RV had not been reached in Cartagena and new cases of rubella (German measles) or congenital rubella (German measles)syndrome are still possible in the area. These findings revealed that no significant progress had been made since 2006 when German measles vaccine coverage was 90 %-95 %. High risk in girls aged 10-14 suggests that the local immunisation programme fails in MMR vaccine administration.

Mutual interference on the immune response to yellow fever vaccine and a combined vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella.

A randomized trial was conducted to assess the immunogenicity and reactogenicity of yellow fever vaccines (YFV) given either simultaneously in separate injections, or 30 days or more after a combined measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Volunteers were also randomized to YFV produced from 17DD and WHO-17D-213 substrains. The study group comprised 1769 healthy 12-month-old children brought to health care centers in Brasilia for routine vaccination. The reactogenicity was of the type and frequency expected for the vaccines and no severe adverse event was associated to either vaccine. Seroconversion and seropositivity 30 days or more after vaccination against yellow fever was similar across groups defined by YFV substrain. Subjects injected YFV and MMR simultaneously had lower seroconversion rates--90% for rubella, 70% for yellow fever and 61% for mumps--compared with those vaccinated 30 days apart--97% for rubella, 87% for yellow fever and 71% for mumps. Seroconversion rates for measles were higher than 98% in both comparison groups. Geometric mean titers for rubella and for yellow fever were approximately three times higher among those who got the vaccines 30 days apart. For measles and mumps antibodies GMTs were similar across groups. MMR's interference in immune response of YFV and YFV's interference in immune response of rubella and mumps components of MMR had never been reported before but are consistent with previous observations from other live vaccines. These results may affect the recommendations regarding primary vaccination with yellow fever vaccine and MMR.

Seroprevalencia de IgG contra Rubeola en mujeres entre 10-49 años, en Cartagena, Colombia / The seroprevalence IgG antibodies against rubella (German measles) in 10-49 year-old women from Cartagena, Colombia

Objetivo Determinar la seroprevalencia de Inmunoglobulina G (IgG) contra Virus de la Rubéola (VR) en Cartagena y si las metas de cobertura en inmunización contra VR han sido alcanzadas. Métodos Se desarrolló un estudio transversal, durante 2009. Se incluyeron mujeres entre 10-49 años de edad. Los individuos fueron seleccionados aleatoriamente. Las variables socio-demográficas fueron registradas por entrevista directa. La IgG contra VR fue detectada mediante ELISA. Para analizar diferencias entre grupos se emplearon la prueba exacta de Fisher y X2. Se aplicó un modelo de regresión logística para correlacionar variables. Resultados Se analizaron 1 528 muestras. El 93 por ciento (n=1 422) de la población fue seropositiva. Las mujeres entre 10-14 años reportaron un menor nivel de seropositividad en relación con el resto de la población. Las diferencias entre proporciones de seroprevalencia fueron estadísticamente significativas en los rangos de edad (p<0,001) y la ocupación (p=0,042). Las mujeres entre 10-14 años reportaron riesgo elevado para seronegatividad (OR=0,27, p<0,001). Conclusiones Las metas de seroprevalencia contra VR no han sido alcanzadas en Cartagena y nuevos casos de Rubéola o Síndrome de Rubéola Congénita podrían presentarse en el Distrito. Estos hallazgos revelan que no hubo progreso significativo desde 2006, cuando el porcentaje de cobertura en vacunación contra VR oscilaba entre 90-95 por ciento. El alto riesgo en el grupo de 10-14 años sugiere falencias en la administración de las dosis iniciales en el esquema de vacunación.

Objective Determining immunoglobulin G (IgG) against the rubella virus (RV) causing German measles in Cartagena and whether vaccination goals against German measles have been achieved. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out during 2009; females aged 10-49 years were included. Selection was randomised. Socio-demographic variables were recorded in face-to-face interviews. IgG against RV was detected by ELISA. X2 and Fisher's exact tests were used for comparing variables. A logistic regression model was used for correlating data. Results A total of 1,528 serum samples were analysed; 93 percent (n=1,422) were seropositive. The lowest seropositivity was reported in girls aged 10-14. Differences regarding seroprevalence percentages were statistically significant between age ranges (p<0.001) and employment (p=0.042). A high risk of seronegativity was reported for girls aged 10-14 (OR=0.27; p<0.001). Conclusions Seroprevalence goals against RV had not been reached in Cartagena and new cases of rubella (German measles) or congenital rubella (German measles)syndrome are still possible in the area. These findings revealed that no significant progress had been made since 2006 when German measles vaccine coverage was 90 percent-95 percent. High risk in girls aged 10-14 suggests that the local immunisation programme fails in MMR vaccine administration.

[Association between HSV-2 infection and serum anti-rat brain antibodies in patients with autism]. / Infecciones por HSV-2 y su relación con anticuerpos antiencéfalo de rata en suero de pacientes con autismo.

Some cases of autism could be linked to viral infections able to induce autoimmune mechanisms directed against the encephalon. Neurothophic virus infections in animals are associated with clinical signs that are similar to those observed in neurodevelopment disorders. Thus, in this study, we determined the co-existence of antibodies against nerve tissue and viruses with neurothophic competence (HSV-1/2, Epstein-Barr-EBV, cytomegalovirus, measles and rubella) in serum of forty autistic children and forty healthy children. The presence of antibodies against nerve tissue was detected in slices of rat encephalic tissue by indirect immunofluorescence. The levels of anti-viral IgG and IgM antibodies were measured by indirect ELISA. The proportion of autistics with anti-encephalon IgG antibodies (77% anti-amygdala, 70% anti-caudate nucleus, 47.5% anti-cerebellum y anti-brain stem, 45% anti-hippocampus, 40% anti-corpus callosum and 17,5% anti-cortex) was significantly greater than that of controls (10% anti- amygdala y 5% anti- cerebellum) and was directly related to the severity of the autism. The proportion of children with positive levels (greater than 1.1.mg/dL) for anti-HSV IgM antibodies (indicative of acute infection) was significantly greater in autistics (65%) than in healthy children (17.5%). Ninety six percent of the autistics with anti-HSV antibodies also had anti-encephalon antibodies, percentage that was significantly greater than that of autistics negative to the anti-HSV-antibody (43%). In contrast, there were no significant differences for IgG and IgM antibodies for EBV, cytomegalovirus, measles and rubella. This suggests that autoimmunity against encephalic structures elicited by HSV infections could be involved in autism.

[Seroprevalence of rubella in urban and rural populations, Guaratinguetá]. / Soroprevalência da rubéola na população urbana e rural de Guaratinguetá

OBJECTIVE: To investigate seroprevalence of rubella antibodies in a 15 to 39 year old population in the municipal district of Guaratinguetá. METHODS: The 996 samples studied were collected in urban and rural zones, after informed and elucidated consent from men and women stratified by age (15 -39 years). Rubella IgG antibodies were detected by ELISA using the commercial kit Rubenostika IgGII (Organon Teknika THE, Holland). Age groups were stratified in 3 categories: 15-19; 20-29 and 30-39 years of age. Statistical analyses were accomplished with the software MINITAB version 14.0 (Minitab Inc, USA). RESULTS: The proportion of seropositives for antibodies of the IgG class were: 92.7.% positive for 15-19 years; 82.4% for 20 to 29 years and 90.7% for 30-39 years, with a significant difference in the seropositive proportions by age group (p <0.001). Variation of intensity of antibody response was calculated and results show a significant difference (p = 0.002) between means of the 3 age groups studied. In relation to rural and urban zone average of the ratio DO/CO for each age group, a significant tendency towards a lower average was observed in the rural zone. The same was true when the seropositive proportions were calculated. CONCLUSION: Results showed that the percentage and individuals with antibodies of the IgG class against rubella in the 20-29 year age group was lower than that in the younger and older age groups. Furthermore, the difference between seropositivity in the urban and rural zones discloses susceptibility with a potential for continued circulation of the virus in this zone.

Acute arthropathy in patients with rash diseases: a comparative study.

The aim of this study was to assess the association of acute arthropathy and selected clinical features in patients with acute rash diseases. Serum samples from 1,554 patients were tested for anti-measles, dengue, human parvovirus B19, and rubella virus IgM using enzyme immunoassay. Sera from children, in whom these infections were excluded, were studied for anti-human herpesvirus type 6 IgG antibodies using an indirect immunofluorescence test. Joint complaints occurred in 31.2% of the 862 patients with an etiologic diagnosis and were more frequently seen in adults than in children (OR 8.5). Among the adults, arthropathy prevailed in women compared to men (OR 1.8). Arthropathy was most frequently reported in rubella (41.2%) and in dengue fever cases (41.1%) than in the other rash diseases studied (p < 0.0001). Joint complaints were more frequently seen in patients with fever (OR 1.6) and with five or more days of onset of the disease (OR 1.6), regardless of serological diagnosis. Arthropathy appeared as a frequent condition in rash diseases, typically with low severity and no specific pattern of joint involvement.

Confirmation of rubella within 4 days of rash onset: comparison of rubella virus RNA detection in oral fluid with immunoglobulin M detection in serum or oral fluid.

Rubella virus infection is typically diagnosed by the identification of rubella virus-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in serum, but approximately 50% of serum samples from rubella cases collected on the day of rash onset are negative for rubella virus-specific IgM. The ability to detect IgM in sera and oral fluids was compared with the ability to detect rubella virus RNA in oral fluids by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) by using paired samples taken within the first 4 days after rash onset from suspected rubella cases during an outbreak in Perú. Sera were tested for IgM by both indirect and capture enzyme immunoassays (EIAs), and oral fluids were tested for IgM by a capture EIA. Tests for IgM in serum were more sensitive for the confirmation of rubella than the test for IgM in oral fluid during the 4 days after rash onset. RT-PCR confirmed more suspected cases than serum IgM tests on days 1 and 2 after rash onset. The methods confirmed approximately the same number of cases on days 3 and 4 after rash onset. However, a few cases were detected by serum IgM tests but not by RT-PCR even on the day of rash onset. Nine RT-PCR-positive oral fluid specimens were shown to contain rubella virus sequences of genotype 1C. In summary, RT-PCR testing of oral fluid confirmed more rubella cases than IgM testing of either serum or oral fluid samples collected in the first 2 days after rash onset; the maximum number of confirmations of rubella cases was obtained by combining RT-PCR and serology testing.