The risk of measles, mumps, and varicella among young adults: A serosurvey of US navy and marine corps recruits

J. P. Struewing, K. C. Hyams, J. E. Tueller, G. C. Gray

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

105 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives. To assess the risk of epidemic transmission and to guide immunization policy, the seroprevalence of antibody to measles, mumps, and varicella was determined in a group of young adults. Methods. A cross- sectional study of 1533 US Navy and Marine Corps recruits was conducted in June 1989. Antibody status was determined with commercially available enzyme- linked immunosorbent assays. Results. Direct sex and race adjustment to the 15- to 29-year-old US population resulted in seronegativity rates of 17.8% for measles, 12.3% for mumps, and 6.7% for varicella. Measles and mumps seronegativity rates were higher among Whites whereas varicella seronegativity was higher among non-Whites. Recruits enlisting from outside the 50 US states, especially those from island territories, were more likely to lack varicella antibody. The sensitivity of a positive history of vaccination or disease in predicting antibody status was less than 90% for all diseases. Conclusions. These results suggest a continued potential for epidemics, especially of measles, and the need for mandatory immunization policies. Immigrants to the United States, especially those from island territories, may be a high-risk group that could benefit from varicella vaccination.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1717-1720
Number of pages4
JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health
Volume83
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - 1993
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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