Seroprevalence of rubella and measles antibodies in Lao PDR.

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, measles and rubella epidemics still occur worldwide, particularly in developing countries.

METHODS

The present study investigated seroprevalence of rubella and measles IgG antibodies by using a comercial enzyme immunoassay. The findings helped to understand the current status of these infections in school children in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.

RESULTS

The seropositive rate for measles antibody was 97.6%. Most importantly, more than half of 411 healthy children (56.4%) were rubella seronegative and susceptible to acquired rubella infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The results highlight a high proportion of rubella-seronegative children, suggesting that they are susceptible to rubella and face the risk of congenital rubella syndrome. It was the first study to report on seroprevalence of rubella in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.