Evaluation of measles, rubella, mumps, hepatitis b and varicella zoster antibodies in medical and dental students in Shiraz, Iran

ABSTRACT

Measles, rubella, mumps, hepatitis B virus [HBV] and varicella zoster virus [VZV] cause infectious diseases that can be effectively prevented by vaccination. Vaccination of medical students is important, because they are more likely to become exposed and infected by these viruses. A total of 180 students, consisting of 90 women and 90 men, were serologically screened for measles, rubella and mumps, HBV and VZV antibodies. Their sera were examined for Immunoglobulin G [IgG] antibody against these viruses by using ELISA IgG kits. Total antibody against measles, rubella, mumps, HBV and VZV were 52%, 100%, 76%, 68% and 15% respectively. There was no significant difference in antibodies level according to gender. The results of this study indicate vaccination is vital for medical student prior to hospital training