Rubella prevention in family practice with RA27/3 vaccine

The literature reveals serious shortcomings in rubella immunization programs since the introduction of rubella vaccine in 1969. Current programs may be supplemented by immunizing susceptible women in the childbearing years. Family physicians are in an ideal position to add this service for their practice populations. Existing methods in two practices were assessed by chart review and found to be disorganized. Testing of immunity was haphazard and incomplete, only occasionally being followed by immunization when indicated. A method of approaching this problem in the context of provision of service in everyday practice was established and evaluated. It is concluded that preventive measures are more successful if proposed during routine patient visits for other reasons. The distribution of rubella HI antibody titers in women from ages 12 to 40 years in this practice are displayed, along with the success rate of vaccination with RA27/3 vaccine (Almevax) and the frequency and nature of adverse effects. The superiority of response to this vaccine is demonstrated, as is the practicability of inclusion of Rubella HI testing and vaccination in the daily provision of care in a family practice.