Related Experiment Videos
Rubella in Panama: still a problem
C Saad de Owens1, R Tristan de Espino
1Neonatology Service, Hospital de la Caja de Seguro Social, Panama City, Republic of Panama.
Insights
In 1986, Panama reported thousands of acquired rubella cases. Congenital rubella syndrome in 54 neonates caused severe health issues and significant care costs, highlighting the need for vaccination.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- In 1986, the Republic of Panama experienced a significant number of acquired rubella cases.
- Rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), causing severe birth defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the incidence and manifestations of congenital rubella in Panama in 1986.
- To estimate the direct care costs associated with congenital rubella cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of reported acquired rubella cases in Panama for 1986.
- Identification and clinical assessment of neonates with congenital rubella syndrome.
- Estimation of annual direct care costs for affected neonates.
Main Results:
- 3795 cases of acquired rubella were reported nationwide, with 1550 in the Metropolitan Region.
- 54 neonates were identified with congenital rubella syndrome, presenting with various defects including cardiopathies, neurological issues, low birth weight, ocular defects, and hearing loss.
- The estimated annual direct cost of care for these 54 neonates was approximately $123,730.
Conclusions:
- Congenital rubella syndrome imposes a substantial health burden with severe developmental consequences.
- The high cost of caring for infants with CRS underscores the economic and health benefits of rubella vaccination.
Abstract:
In 1986 there were 3795 cases of acquired rubella reported in the Republic of Panama (177/100,000 population) of which 1550 were from the Metropolitan Region (261/100,000 population). Fifty-four neonates (218/100,000 of those born alive), born predominantly in two medical centers within the capital, were identified with compatible or confirmed congenital rubella manifesting as cardiopathies and neurologic defects in 68.5%; low birth weight in 61%; ocular defects in 48%; muscular tone alterations and psychomotor retardation in 35 and 33%, respectively; and hearing loss and purpura in 29.6%. It is estimated that the annual direct cost of care for these 54 patients would be close to $123,730, and this confirms the high cost of continuing care compared with the use of a safe, economical and efficient vaccine.