Seroprevalence of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella antibodies among Southwestern Libyan students.

Abstract

Background Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) are vaccine preventable viral diseases. They cause significant mortality and morbidity worldwide. The seroprevalence data on MMR in Libya is limited. The aim of our study was to assess the immune status and infection susceptibility of primary school children and university students for measles, mumps, and rubella in Libya through a seroprevalence survey. Methods A cross-sectional serosurvey of MMR was conducted in Brack city, Libya among students of at Al-Shoroug Primary School (ASP) and the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Sabha University (FETS). Results A total of 76 participants were surveyed. The age range was 7-20 years old with a mean of 13.6 years. The overall mumps IgG seropositivity rate was 43.4%. Measles and Mumps IgG levels among children are significantly higher than University students. A high rubella IgG seroprevalence was noticed in female university students. Conclusion The measles and Mumps IgG sharply decreased with time compared to rubella IGg. According to the Libyan program the first and second dose of the MMR vaccine is given at the age of 12and 18 months, respectively. That may not be protective in adult age. A third regular dose could be recommended in the national vaccine program to prevent outbreaks in young adults. Clinical relevance These results can inform the development of future screening programs and contribute to the management of viral infections in schools and universities. Key words Measles, Mumps, Rubella, seroprevalence, seroprotection, immunoglobulin G, Libya