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[Seroconversion in juvenile patients and adults after diphtheria immunization]
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|November 19, 1982
Summary
Diphtheria toxoid vaccination in hospital personnel showed a 76.7% seroconversion rate. Age impacts immune response, with older individuals showing a higher conversion factor. Recommendations include selective immunisation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Context:
- Diphtheria remains a public health concern, necessitating effective vaccination strategies.
- Hospital personnel are at increased risk of exposure due to patient contact.
- Assessing vaccine efficacy in adult populations is crucial for maintaining herd immunity.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the immunogenicity of diphtheria toxoid vaccination in hospital personnel.
- To determine the optimal dosage and assess seroconversion rates in different age groups.
- To inform recommendations for diphtheria reimmunisation programs.
Summary:
- 155 hospital personnel (15-64 years) were immunised against diphtheria using 7.5 IU or 2.5 IU diphtheria toxoid.
- Out of 120 seronegative individuals, 92 (76.7%) achieved protective antitoxin levels after vaccination.
- Higher conversion factors were observed in older age groups (55-64 years) compared to younger ones (15-24 years).
- Local reactions were mild and infrequent (20.8%), with one case of slight temperature increase.
Impact:
- The study supports the use of diphtheria toxoid vaccination in adult healthcare workers.
- Findings suggest age-specific considerations for diphtheria immunisation strategies.
- Recommendations include offering reimmunisation before leaving school and selective vaccination for high-risk groups.