Rubella immunity in 14-18 year old females: assessment in a city practice

Abstract

We have undertaken a pilot study to assess the rubella immunity status of 88 females aged 14-18 years in a Dunedin suburban general practice. According to practice records, only 60% were found to have a record of immunisation. The low response rate of only 58% of those requested to participate was of concern given the publicity about the dangers of the congenital rubella syndrome. All the girls who responded were shown to be immune against rubella. While 40% of the study group apparently escaped immunisation recording, they nonetheless acquired immunity. One explanation for this finding may be incomplete record keeping and transmission of the vaccination history of the patient. These results remind us that we should not be complacent as to the efficiency of our present immunisation efforts and to be alert to opportunities for ensuring protection in the patient population.