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Decay of passively acquired maternal antibodies against measles, mumps, and rubella viruses

C Nicoara1, K Zäch, D Trachsel

  • 1Institute for Medical Microbiology, University of Bern, Switzerland.

Clinical and Diagnostic Laboratory Immunology
|November 5, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Maternal antibodies against measles, mumps, and rubella wane quickly in infants. Early measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination at 12 months may enhance protection against these viral infections.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • Maternally derived antibodies provide crucial early immunity to infants.
  • The decline rate of these antibodies influences infant vaccination timing.
  • Understanding antibody decay is key for effective immunization strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the optimal timing for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination in Swiss infants.
  • To analyze the decay patterns of maternally acquired antibodies against measles, mumps, and rubella viruses.

Main Methods:

  • Collected and analyzed 500 serum or plasma samples from infants up to 2 years of age.
  • Utilized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and fluorescent-antibody testing.
  • Assessed antibody prevalence and concentration against measles, mumps, and rubella viruses.

Main Results:

  • Antibody levels against measles, mumps, and rubella viruses declined significantly within the first six months of life.
  • Measles antibody prevalence was lowest between 9-12 months (8.6%).
  • Mumps and rubella antibody seropositivity was minimal at 9-12 and 12-15 months, respectively.

Conclusions:

  • MMR vaccination at 12 months, instead of 15 months, could decrease the number of susceptible infants.
  • Earlier vaccination supports efforts to eliminate measles, mumps, and rubella infections.
  • A second MMR vaccine dose before school entry is recommended for sustained immunity.

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