Abstract

HERNANDEZ DIAZ, Rogelio et al. Seroepidemiologic study of rubella in childbearing women in Aragon, Spain (2003-2007). Gac Sanit [online]. 2011, vol.25, n.1, pp.20-22. ISSN 0213-9111.

Objectives: To quantify and identify the rubella-susceptible population in Aragon according to sociodemographic variables, with the aim of assessing compliance with the 5% limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Methods: Rubella serology tests performed in women of childbearing age in the Miguel Servet Hospital from 2003 to 2007 were studied. A descriptive analysis of seronegativity was performed by age, years of study, and WHO region (for 2007). A logistic regression was performed with the independent variables of age and geographical origin. Results: We studied 13,136 women. The mean age was 31.2 years. During the study period, 5% were susceptible to rubella (95%CI: 4.63-5.37). In 2003, 8.8% were seronegative and the highest percentage (12.3%) was found in women aged 15 to 19 years. The percentage of seronegativity was higher in foreign-born women (7.7%), especially those from Asia, than in Spanish women (3.3%; p<0.05). Conclusions: Postpartum preventive strategies should be established to prevent possible rubella outbreaks and cases of congenital rubella syndrome.

Keywords : Rubella; Seroepidemiology; Spain; Rubella antibodies; Congenital rubella syndrome; Infectious complications of pregnancy.

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