Antibodies to polioviruses in an Israeli population and overseas volunteers

A seroepidemiological survey of prevalence of antibodies to poliovirus types 1-3 was carried out in 1,800 residents of 30 agricultural settlements (kibbutzim) in Israel during 1980 and 1981. The survey showed that in 1980 84%, 90%, and 79% of the kibbutz residents exhibited antibodies to poliovirus types 1-3, respectively. In 1981 the figures were 81%, 91%, and 73%. Significantly lower levels of antibodies for poliovirus type 3 in 1980/1981, and for poliovirus type 1 in 1981, were noticed in the age group 6-17 years compared with the age group of greater than 18 years. Infants and young children of the kibbutzim received the Salk polio vaccine during 1957-1961 and the Sabin oral polio vaccine since 1961. Among overseas volunteers from Western countries who came during 1980 and 1981 to work in the kibbutzim for a limited period of time, 88% exhibited antibodies to poliovirus type 1, 94% to poliovirus type 2, and 75% to poliovirus type 3. No significant differences in the level of antibodies were detected between males and females or between residents in those kibbutzim using or not using wastewater for irrigation.