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Measles antibody titers in early infancy
1Department of Pediatrics, Hektoen Institute for Medical Research, Cook County Children's Hospital, Chicago.
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Many infants in neonatal intensive care units lose measles antibody protection by 4-5 months of age. This highlights the need to consider this vulnerable population in measles control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Measles antibody levels in infants are crucial for protection against infection.
- Infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) may have unique immunological profiles.
- Understanding measles seronegativity in this population is vital during outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of measles seronegativity in infants under six months old.
- To assess the serologic response to measles vaccination in seronegative infants.
- To identify factors associated with measles antibody loss in NICU infants.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional measles antibody survey was conducted during a 1989 measles epidemic in Chicago.
- 203 infants under six months admitted to a NICU were studied.
- Measles IgG antibody levels were measured, and seronegative infants received the measles vaccine.
Main Results:
- At birth, 74% of infants aged 4-5 months were measles seronegative.
- Seronegativity was associated with chronological age, gestational age, packed red blood cell transfusions, and maternal age.
- 79% of vaccinated seronegative infants showed seroconversion.
Conclusions:
- A substantial number of NICU infants lose measles antibodies by 4-5 months of age.
- This population requires specific consideration in measles control and prevention efforts.
- Further research into optimal vaccination timing for high-risk infants is warranted.