Surveillance of measles and rubella antibodies levels of pregnant women in Songjiang District of Shanghai

ObjectiveTo explore serum levels of measles and rubella IgG antibodies among pregnant women in order to provide scientific evidence for the prevention strategy of measles, rubella among infants before initial immune months and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) among neonatus.

MethodsA total of 600 healthy pregnant women were randomly selected of 15 to 24 years, 25 to 34 years and 35 to 44 years in maternity hospitals of Songjiang District from May to August 2013 and April to June 2014, with venous blood collected and serum measles and rubella IgG antibodies measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

ResultsThe survey on the 600 healthy pregnant women showed that geometric mean concentration and positive rate of measles IgG antibodies were 885.58 mIU/mL and 86.50% respectively, those of rubella IgG antibodies were 197.85 IU/mL and 82.17% respectively. Measles and rubella antibodies levels of pregnant women among different age groups did not vary significantly, however, migrant population's measles and rubella antibodies levels were both higher than those of the locals.

ConclusionIn order to prevent measles, rubella and CRS, it is necessary to carry out supplemental vaccination with measles and rubella ingredients for women of childbearing age.