Seroprevalence of rubella in infertile women and the need for preconceptional vaccination

Abstract

Background: When a pregnant woman gets rubella infection in early months of pregnancy, there is risk of severe and multiple fetal defects ( congenital rubella syndrome), abortion and stillbirth. Screening of reproductive age women for susceptibility to rubella infection and vaccinating them can prevent this situation.

Objective: The objective of the study was to find out the proportion of infertile women who are seronegative for rubella infection and to assess the need for vaccination against rubella before pregnancy.

Methods: The observational study included three hundred and eighty infertile women who had their venous blood tested for anti-rubella antibodies as part ofpreconceptional preparation. Data was analyzed to estimate seronegativity and the need for vaccination.

Results: A total of 55 (14.4%) women were seron­egative for rubella and had to be vaccinated. The seronegativity decreased with age . The proportion of seronegativity was higher in those women who were professionals, had higher level of education and monthly income.

Conclusion: A significant proporion of women in reproductive age does not acquire natural immunity against rubella and needs vacci­nation before pregnancy.