Search

Rubella virus (RuV) infections in pregnant women, especially first-trimester infections, can lead to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). However, the mechanisms of fetal RuV infection are not completely understood, and it is not observed in every pregnant woman infected with RuV. As gestational diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for congenital viral infections, we investigated the possible roles of hypoglycemia-related endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as a key factor for vertical RuV infection using immortalized human first-trimester trophoblasts. Low-glucose stress was induced prior to RuV infection by culturing HTR-8/SVneo and Swan.71 cells in low-glucose (LG) medium for 24h or high-glucose medium for 6h and then LG medium for an additional 18h. Clinically isolated RuV was inoculated at a multiplicity of infection of 5 to 10. The intracellular localization of the RuV capsid protein was investigated 24 to 48h post-infection (pi) with flow cytometry (FCM) analysis and fluorescence microscopy. Viral progeny production was monitored by FCM analysis. Increases in RuV infection in LG-induced ER-stressed trophoblasts were observed. No significant increase in apoptosis of RuV-infected cells was noted at days 2 and 5 pi, and substantial viral progeny production was observed until day 5 pi. An approximate fivefold increase in viral binding was noted for the LG-stressed cells. Although the detailed mechanisms underlying viral entry into LG-stressed cells are not known and require further investigation, these findings suggest that a certain degree of LG stress in early pregnancy may facilitate infection and cause CRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rubella is an acute viral disease generally mild in its clinical manifestations. However, it is most serious for pregnant women due to the high frequency of congenital abnormalities that it causes, known as congenital rubella syndrome. This study aimed to determine rubella seroprevalence among a group of Moroccan parturients and survey physicians’ opinions regarding the situation of congenital rubella syndrome in different regions of Morocco. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 1500 women hospitalized in the Maternity Souissi of Rabat for delivery and 14 pediatricians/neonatologists who were practicing in public and private centers representing different regions of Morocco. Data on rubella serological status were extracted from the medical records of mothers. The physicians involved in this study were visited to answer the survey in person, or they completed the survey by e-mail or phone discussion. Results: Among enrolled women, and after excluding those who did not bring back evidence of a serological assessment, 222 (17.5%) women performed a rubella serology of which 84.7% were immunized against rubella. The opinion poll of physicians showed an almost absence of reports on congenital rubella syndrome cases. All practitioners surveyed were interested to join the establishment of congenital rubella syndrome reporting system. Conclusion: To achieve the goals set for congenital rubella syndrome elimination, it is of primary importance to protect women from the childbearing age by vaccination and measures that help avoid any further contact with the virus. There is also a need to expand serological screening to detect and monitor seronegative women. In addition, it is necessary to diagnose and notify new cases of congenital rubella syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a rubella outbreak in 2011, Vietnam implemented a mass measles-rubella vaccination campaign for children aged 1–14 years in 2014–2015, further expanding the target age to 16–17 years in 2016; routine vaccination was introduced in 2014. However, there was concern that a substantial proportion of women of child-bearing age were still susceptible to rubella, with the fear of congenital rubella emergence. Thus, we conducted a prospective cohort study in Nha Trang, Vietnam, from 2017–2018 to investigate pregnant women’s susceptibility to rubella infection, the incidence of congenital rubella infection, and factors associated with susceptibility. Cord blood was tested for rubella-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG; neonatal saliva and cord blood specimens were examined for rubella-RNA. We analyzed 2013 mother-baby pairs. No baby was rubella-IgM or rubella-RNA positive. Overall, 20.4% of mothers were seronegative (95% confidence interval, 18.6%–22.1%). The seronegativity was significantly low among mothers aged

The first Attenuated rubella vaccine was developed by Parkman and Meyer in 1966. Ten years later in the 1975s, the rubella vaccine was developed in Razi Vaccine and serum research institute) RVSRI). In 1977, the rubella TAKAHASHI vaccine successfully passed the clinical trial and was initially used voluntarily only in the private sector. Since 1987, the administration of rubella as MMR (Measles/AIK-C; Rubella/TAKAHASHI; Mumps/HOSHINO) strain vaccine has been included in the immunization program in Iran. This review article focused on the development and production of the rubella TAKAHASHI/HDC vaccine in RVSRI. The herd immunity and rubella cases were investigated in the pre- and post-vaccine era. The effectiveness and proper coverage of the rubella vaccine led to the elimination of rubella from Iran in 2019. The current study aimed to assess local rubella vaccine manufacturing and its consequences on rubella elimination from Iran, using various search engines. A complete search was carried out in medical databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Scientific Information Database, IranMedex, Magiran, and Google Scholar. Within 1972-1975, Rubella TAKAHASHI/HDC vaccine was developed by RVSRI and successfully passed clinical trial in 1977. Over the four last decades (1980-2020), more than 40 million infants, young, and adults were vaccinated by million doses of local Rubella, measles-rubella (MR) or measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine in Iran. In 1972, the pre-vaccine era, the overall sensitivity to rubella infection was 69% in one-year-old Iranian children and 23% in childbearing women. The use of a safe, inexpensive, and effective vaccine increased herd immunity to 95% (85%-99%) in our country. During the last two decades, we have witnessed a 91% decline in the confirmed rubella cases, from 1124 in 2000 to 33 cases in 2018. The current article presented the process of vaccine development, tracked it through more than four decades, and discussed disease status before and after the rubella vaccine era, as well as the history of its elimination from Iran. The effectiveness of the local Razi Rubella vaccine resulted in a significant increase in seroprevalence in Iran. Expanded vaccination against rubella, usually with measles, has led to the elimination of Rubella from Iran as confirmed by World Health Organization in 2019.

• Highly-resolved serosurvey reveals subnational variation in rubella transmission. • Model projections reveal rubella vaccine introduction risk varies across Nigeria. • Paired campaigns and routine immunisation improvements prevents increase in CRS. • Subnational approach to rubella vaccine program design can accelerate introduction. Rubella infection during pregnancy can result in miscarriage or infants with a constellation of birth defects known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). When coverage is inadequate, rubella vaccination can increase CRS cases by increasing the average age of infection. Thus, the World Health Organisation recommends that countries introducing rubella vaccine be able to vaccinate at least 80% of each birth cohort. Previous studies have focused on national-level analyses and have overlooked sub-national variation in introduction risk. We characterised the sub-national heterogeneity in rubella transmission within Nigeria and modelled local rubella vaccine introduction under different scenarios to refine the set of conditions and strategies required for safe rubella vaccine use. Across Nigeria, the basic reproduction number ranged from 2.6 to 6.2. Consequently, the conditions for safe vaccination varied across states with low-risk areas requiring coverage levels well below 80 %. In high-risk settings, inadequate routine coverage needed to be supplemented by campaigns that allowed for gradual improvements in vaccination coverage over time. Understanding local heterogeneities in both short-term and long-term epidemic dynamics can permit earlier nationwide introduction of rubella vaccination and identify sub-national areas suitable for program monitoring, program improvement and campaign support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: As a result of the 2012–2013 rubella epidemics in Japan, many cases of congenital rubella syndrome have been reported. Given the frequent changes to rubella vaccination policy in Japan, we investigated antibody prevalence among pregnant women according to birth year. Subjects and methods: Participants comprised 55,400 pregnant Japanese women for whom rubella-specific hemagglutination inhibition antibody had been measured during early pregnancy in our institute from 1987 to 2016. Birth year was considered for the 47,978 cases for which age was known. Results: The ratio of rubella antibody-negative cases among pregnant women born after 1962 decreased significantly with mandatory vaccination. In the transition phase, during which the administration target was changed from schoolgirls to children of both sexes (born 1979–1987) as temporary vaccination, the ratio of rubella antibody-negative pregnant women started increasing in the latter period of this phase. For generations born in or after 1988, the ratio of rubella antibody-negative pregnant women clearly increased when the vaccination target changed to non-mandatory vaccination of children of both sexes. Conclusions: Prevalence of antibody titers depends on vaccine coverage rates. Suitable information needs to be provided prior to conception to all women, their husbands, and family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The infection of rubella in pregnancy is worrisome due to the fact that it causes miscarriages, congenital defects, and Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS). The purpose of this study was to determine the status of Rubella IgG antibody levels both during the antenatal and postnatal periods among pregnant women nonimmune to rubella and the incidence of exposure to rubella in pregnancy. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study that included 4770 pregnant, who attended the obstetric clinics and delivered in Women’s Specialized Hospital, King Fahad Medical City, between January and December 2015. The study utilized the following measures for rubella screening tests (IgG and IgM) during the antenatal and postnatal period. Pregnant women with recent rubella infection (IgM antibody positive), history of rubella infection, or had immunity against rubella (IgG antibody concentration ≥10 IU/ml) were excluded from the study. Results: The prevalence of pregnant women nonimmune to rubella was 6.3% (n = 301). The majority (93.7%) were immune (IgG antibody concentration ≥10 IU/ml). No patients tested positive for rubella (IgM +ve). Overall, The Median (IQR) Rubella (IgG) in the antenatal period (6.3 (8.30–5.00) IU/m) was significantly less in comparison to the postnatal period (5.0 (6.40–5.00) IU/m). The difference was statistically significant, p

Purpose: The aim of this study ws to evaluate prognostic factors associated with final visual outcome in patients with congenital cataract associated with congenital rubella syndrome. Methods: A prospective interventional analysis of preoperative systemic and ocular features of 56 eyes of 28 seropositive infants of less than 12 months presenting to us with bilateral cataract was performed. All infants were surgically treated with cataract extraction, posterior capsulorhexis, and anterior vitrectomy followed by visual rehabilitation. Intraocular lens implantation was done in children after 2 years of age. Outcome data were collected till children reached the fifth chronological age. Chi-square test was used as a test of significance for qualitative data. Results: Of the 56 eyes, 44.6% eyes had vision better than 20/60. Important preoperative factors related to poor visual prognosis were morphology of cataract (P = 0.004), microphthalmos (P < 0.001), features suggestive of iris hypoplasia (P < 0.001), optic atrophy (P < 0.001), nystagmus (P = 0.02), and associated neurological anomalies (P = 0.0023). We found no significant statistical association between postoperative visual outcome and isolated rubella retinopathy, cloudy cornea, cardiological, and ontological abnormalities. Conclusion: Cataract associated with rubella is a common cause of congenital cataract in developing countries. Determining prognostic factors helps us in parent counseling and planning treatment protocols. Nevertheless, early detection and treatment with adequate multidisciplinary approach remains priority for improving long-term visual outcomes.

Introduction: In developing countries like India, the comprehension of rubella virus illness, its consequences, and vaccine are nominal. Rubella virus infection occurring during pregnancy could lead to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Aim: The study aimed to know the awareness among young women healthcare practitioners of the reproductive age group towards rubella virus illness, its impacts, and vaccination. Method: The research had been carried out on 200 medical practitioner women of reproductive age category between 18 and 40 years. A restructured questionnaire-based interview has been conducted to check their comprehension about it. Result: Nearly all women of reproductive age did not know about the occurrence of rubella virus disease, its consequences, and vaccination. Conclusion: The research shows the absence of knowledge of rubella virus disease and demands for awareness programs to advertise properly in Bihar.

A congenital cataract is preventable blindness in children and is associated with intrauterine rubella infection known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), mostly found in developing countries. This study aims to describe the profile of unilateral cataracts in children with CRS, which are more difficult to manage than bilateral ones. As a retrospective study, we reviewed complete medical records of children with CRS and unilateral cataracts at Cipto Mangunkusumo hospital from 2017 to 2020. Fifteen patients were included, mostly male and from outside Jakarta.The mean age of onset was 2.9 months, while the average age at first presentation and surgery was 27.7 months and 29.1 months, respectively.No correlation was found between patients’ residential distance from the hospital towards duration between onset of symptoms and first presentation to the hospital. 100% and 66.7% of patients had leukocoria and microcornea as ocular manifestations. The majority of systemic manifestations are congenital heart disease.66.7% of children underwent cataract surgery without IOL implantation. Improvement of visual acuity postoperatively was observed in 13.3% of patients, and 66.7% of patients used contact lenses for visual rehabilitation. 60% of patients had posterior capsule opacity within six months of follow-up. The challenge of wearing contact lenses in children makes the risk of amblyopia even greater

Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is now the standard of care with some exceptions. Best treatment for peripheral pulmonary artery (PA) stenosis in small children is still debatable. Surgical augmentation, balloon dilatation, and stenting are the available options with each having its own risks and limitations. Here, we are reporting complete transcatheter management of three cases of congenital rubella syndrome who had PDA and left branch PA stenosis by device closure and stent placement, with successful outcome in two cases and complication, leading to surgery in one. We also share our understanding of case selection for a better outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) results from maternal rubella virus infection in early pregnancy. Abnormal neuroimaging findings have been analyzed in a small number of CRS patients in the past; however, their clinical significance has been poorly addressed. Therefore, we have investigated the neuroimaging findings of 31 patients with CRS from previous studies. The most common finding was parenchymal calcification, which was observed in 18 of 31 patients (58.1%). A multivariable logistic regression model showed that it was associated with psychomotor or mental retardation (p = 0.018), suggesting that parenchymal calcification in CRS could be a prognostic factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization's Immunization and Vaccines-related Implementation Research Advisory Committee (IVIR-AC) serves to independently review and evaluate vaccine-related research to maximize the potential impact of vaccination programs. From 28 June - 1 July 2024, IVIR-AC was convened for an ad hoc meeting to discuss new evidence on criteria for rubella vaccine introduction and the risk of congenital rubella syndrome. This report summarizes background information on rubella virus transmission and the burden of congenital rubella syndrome, meeting structure and presentations, proceedings, and recommendations., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest P. L. was supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for this work. S. S. was supported by the World Health Organization for this work. A. N. S. was financially supported by the World Health Organization for this work, and is additionally supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the National Institutes of Health. K. F. is employed by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. M. F. is supported by the National Science Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Imperial College London. E. V. was supported for this work by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance via the Vaccine Impact Modeling Consortium (VIMC), which is jointly funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. C. J. E. M. has previously received travel funds to visit the Max Plank Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology. A. K. W. was supported for this work by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is additionally supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and has previously received travel funds from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. M. K. was supported for this work by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. A. P. is supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Imperial College London, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the World Health Organization. A. B. H. was supported by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council for this work, is additionally supported by the Australian NSW Ministry of Health, PATH, the World Health Organization, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and has received consulting fees from the Australian NSW Ministry of Health, WHO Europe and Asian Development Bank. A. N. S. and M. F. report travel related support from the World Health Organization to attend previous IVIR-AC meetings. All other authors have no declarations., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: Despite the introduction of rubella-containing vaccine into routine immunization in 1977, rubella has not been eliminated in Japan. This study aimed to validate the immunization strategy and to highlight the crucial elements of elimination program., Methods: We scrutinized cases of rubella and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Additionally, we analyzed the national vaccination coverage, seroprevalence, and number of maternal rubella-related spontaneous or artificial fetal deaths., Results: The shift from selective to universal immunization significantly reduced rubella cases coupled with increased seroprevalence in children. However, rubella resurged in 2012-2013 and 2018-2019, which was virologically and serologically confirmed to be associated with imported rubella virus (RuV) and susceptible males. Although the disease burden of CRS may have been suppressed in the past by the large number of spontaneous or artificial fetal deaths, the incidence rate of CRS was comparable to that of the 1960s to 1980s. Cases of breakthrough infection and CRS were identified in females who were considered to have a history of single-dose vaccination., Conclusions: Even with universal immunization, future epidemics and severe outcomes cannot be prevented unless immunization gaps are closed. Furthermore, CRS and breakthrough infection are not completely prevented by single-dose vaccination, indicating the need for second-dose vaccination., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Background: Rubella is a contagious viral infection that has garnered significant attention in the field of public health due to its potential consequences, especially during pregnancy. In recent decades, it has been recommended that non-immune women receive immunization during the preconceptional and/or postpartum periods. The goal of this strategy is to prevent primary rubella infection in order to protect pregnant women against congenital rubella syndrome. In November 2022, the WHO's Regional Verification Commission declared the elimination of rubella infection in Italy. In recent years, the main migration flows to Italy have originated from regions where rubella has not yet been eliminated and where no program is in place to achieve this goal., Objective: The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess rubella immunity in pregnant women who have attended three delivery centers in Rome over the past three years, from January 2021 to May 2023., Methods: Data about the rubella serological status of 7937 non-consecutive pregnant women were collected. Univariate analysis was performed to verify any difference between the study groups in terms of age distribution., Results: Anti-rubella IgG antibodies were found in 7224 (91%) women while 713 (9%) were susceptible to rubella (IgG negative), without differences in terms of immunity rate between Italian and non-Italian women. Age analysis showed a statistically significant older age of immune women than receptive women and of Italian immune women than non-Italian immune women., Conclusions: The National Plan for the Elimination of Measles and Congenital Rubella aimed to achieve a percentage of susceptible women of childbearing age below 5%. These data indicate the relevance of maintaining the recommendation for preconceptional rubella vaccination in Italy.

Background: Rubella is caused by the rubella virus that transmits through droplets or direct contact that can cause congenital defects such as hearing loss. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) rubella can be detected in infants under 1 year of age with suspected congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Objectives: This study was to analyze the correlation between hearing loss with IgM rubella in infants. Methods: This was an observational analytic study with a retrospective in infants <1 year of age with suspected CRS. Medical records and CRS surveillance data of subjects who came to the Otorhinolaryngology Outpatient Clinic, Dr. Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya, from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2017, were collected. The data were grouped based on age, gender, place of residence, clinical symptoms, hearing examination (otoacoustic emission and automated auditory brainstem response), IgM and IgG examination, and CRS classification. Results: Total patients were 171 patients with the highest number of patients was the 0-3 years age group as many as 136 patients (79.5%) and girls patient more than boys as many as 88 patients (51.5%). The most clinical symptom of CRS was 24-hr postpartum jaundice were 111 patients (74.4%). The serological Rubella IgG were positive results with a total patient were 140 (81.9%) and Rubella IgM results were negative with 141 (82.5%). The most CRS case criteria were non-CRS with 78 patients (45.6%). There was correlation of hearing loss with IgM rubella in infants <1-year with suspected CRS and statistical results p= 0.03. Conclusion: IgM rubella correlates to clinical symptoms of hearing loss in infants <1 year of age with suspected CRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rubella vaccine has yet to be introduced into the national immunization schedule of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC); the current burden of congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) is unknown and likely to be high. An important consideration prior to introducing rubella containing vaccine (RCV) is the potential inverse relationship between RCV coverage and CRS incidence. Increasing RCV coverage will also increase in the average age of infection. Cumulative infections across all age groups will decrease, but the number of infections in age groups vulnerable to CRS may increase. Methods: Rubella transmission dynamics in the DRC were simulated using a stochastic agent-based model of transmission. Input parameter values for known properties, demographic variables, and interventions were fixed; infectivity was inferred from seropositivity profiles in survey data. Results: Our simulations of RCV introduction for the DRC demonstrate that an increase in CRS burden is unlikely. Continued endemic transmission is only plausible when routine immunization coverage is less than 40% and follow-up supplemental immunization activities have poor coverage for decades. Conclusion: Increased vaccination coverage tends to increase the annual variability of CRS burden. Simulations examining low vaccination coverage and high mean CRS burden are outbreak prone, with multiple years of reduced burden followed by acute outbreaks. These outcomes contrast simulations with no vaccination coverage and high mean CRS burden, which have more consistent burden from year to year.

The review is devoted to an analysis of the genetic diversity of the rubella virus. Historical and geographical data of the circulation of various genotypes of the rubella virus were presented. The tendency to reduce the genetic diversity of the virus in the world as a result of the rubella elimination programs have been shown.

We estimated the economic impact of concurrent measles and rubella outbreaks in Romania during 2011–2012. We collected costs from surveys of 428 case-patients and caretakers, government records, and health staff interviews. We then estimated financial and opportunity costs. During the study period, 12,427 measles cases and 24,627 rubella cases were recorded; 27 infants had congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The cost of the outbreaks was US $9.9 million. Cost per case was US $439 for measles, US $132 for rubella, and US $44,051 for CRS. Up to 36% of households needed to borrow money to pay for illness treatment. Approximately 17% of patients continued to work while ill to pay their treatment expenses. Our key study findings were that households incurred a high economic burden compared with their incomes, the health sector bore most costs, and CRS costs were substantial and relevant to include in rubella outbreak cost studies.

The only rubella vaccine available in North America is the RA27/3 strain (isolated from the kidney of a rubella-infected fetus and attenuated) licensed in 1979, which substituted HPV77/DE5 strain vaccine due to concerns about waning immunity. The first dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia CYDTDV) was first registered in Mexico in December, 2015, which is a live recombinant tetravalent dengue vaccine. Rubella vaccine was applied since 1969, but tetravalent dengue vaccine is being used in large scale nowadays. In the past, based on unavailable information regarded to rubella vaccine, mathematical models were used to design vaccination schemes in order to avoid congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Currently, knowing that vaccine does not result in CRS, rubella vaccination is modelled as usual childhood infection. This experience of updated biological knowledge that influenced mathematical modellings of rubella vaccination is taken into account to reflect about the tetravalent dengue vaccine. We also address a discussion about the security of vaccination strategies.

Since 2011, GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance, has funded eligible countries to introduce rubella-containing vaccination (RCV) into their national schedule. Two key indicators used to monitor the impact – the future deaths and DALYs (Disability Adjusted Life Years) averted through vaccination conducted in specific periods – are poorly understood for rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS). We calculate these indicators using an age-structured dynamic transmission model for rubella, with historical vaccination coverage projections during 2001–30 in 92 low and middle-income countries considered most likely to require global support to achieve the Global Vaccine Action Plan’s objectives. 131,000 CRS deaths and 12.5 million DALYs may be prevented with immunization campaigns at best-estimate coverage during 2001–30, relative to those without additional support. The impact depended on the time period considered and the method for attributing deaths averted to vaccination in specific periods. The analyses support ongoing activities to reduce CRS-related morbidity and mortality.

Background: Rubella (German measles) is a viral infection, which is contagious disease and self-limiting. Nonimmune adult women may be infected during pregnancy; the 1st-trimester rubella infection is very dangerous and may lead to miscarriage or severe fetal malformation (congenital rubella syndrome). That is why basic epidemiological data concerning rubella (immunity and seropositivity) is necessary for health planners and health-care providers in preventive medicine. Objective: The main objective of the study was to assess the immune susceptibility to rubella among pregnant women by checking serum immunoglobulin (Rubella IgG) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. Materials and Methods: The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Committee of Babylon University, College of Medicine. A cross-sectional study was to investigate the seroprevalence of rubella infection and associated possible risk factors among pregnant women. A total of 100 pregnant women in their first trimester of pregnancy were enrolled from four different primary health-care centers in Al-Hilla city. Filling a prepared structured questionnaire followed by ELISA test to detect IgG against rubella in the blood samples was collected. Results: A total of 100 pregnant women with a mean age of 24.78 ± 5.74 years who are in their first trimester of pregnancy, the study shows that 58 (58%) of the pregnant women have negative IgG against rubella (none immune), whereas the remaining 42 (42%) have positive IgG (either by previous infection with rubella or through vaccination). Living in rural area was highly significant among the seronegative pregnant women, 32 out of 58 seronegative women (55.2%), 41 (97%) of the seropositive group had regular vaccination program, whereas 36 (62%) of the seronegative group had irregular or unknown vaccination history, and 18 (31%) have no vaccination at all with a P < 0.001. The primary level of education was dominant among all the studied women with a P = 0.017. Conclusion: A high percentage of women of reproductive age group, mainly those living in the rural area are considered (at risk) population which necessitates an action by the health services provider.

Introduction: In developing countries like India, the comprehension of rubella virus illness, its consequences, and vaccine are nominal. Rubella virus infection occurring during pregnancy could lead to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Aim: The study aimed to know the awareness among young women healthcare practitioners of the reproductive age group towards rubella virus illness, its impacts, and vaccination. Method: The research had been carried out on 200 medical practitioner women of reproductive age category between 18 and 40 years. A restructured questionnaire-based interview has been conducted to check their comprehension about it. Result: Nearly all women of reproductive age did not know about the occurrence of rubella virus disease, its consequences, and vaccination. Conclusion: The research shows the absence of knowledge of rubella virus disease and demands for awareness programs to advertise properly in Bihar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rubella is an important infectious, vaccine-preventable etiology of congenital defects. The aim of the study was to develop a prediction nomogram to assess the probability of an infant being at risk for congenital rubella based on demographics and ophthalmological findings. Methods: This was a cross-sectional sentinel surveillance study conducted at 5 centers spanning pan-India and involved 1134 infants. The diagnosis of rubella was made using standard guidelines. For the construction of the prediction model, laboratory-confirmed cases were grouped as "at-risk" (AR) infants and the discarded cases into "not at risk" (NAR) infants. Univariate analysis (p value cut-off < 0.05) followed by multivariate binary logistic regression model development was performed. Results: The average (median) age of the suspected CRS infants was 3 (IQR 1–6) months, and the average (mean) age of their mothers was 25.8 ± 4.1 years. Out of the total infants, 81 (7.3%) died, 975 (88%) were alive, and 55 (5.0%) were lost to follow-up. The final model showed that the odds of cataract, retinopathy, glaucoma, microcornea, and age of the infant at presentation were 3.1 (2.2–4.3), 4.9(2.3–10.4), 2.7(1.1–5.9), 2.3(1.1–4.7), and 1.1 (1–1.1), respectively, for the AR infant as compared to NAR infant. AUC of final model was 0.68 (95% CI Delong, 0.64–0.72). Bootstrapping for calibration of the model showed satisfactory results. Nomogram, along with a web version, was developed. Conclusion: The developed nomogram would have a wide community-based utilization and will help in prioritizing attention to high-risk children, thereby avoiding loss to follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Razi Institute is the property of Institut Razi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Rubella viral infection in pregnant women is a Global Public Health concern as it has a devastating effect on developing foetus causing adverse foetal outcome or Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS). Aim: To recognise the proportion of pregnant women susceptible to Rubella infections so as to discern the risk of CRS. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 rural pregnant women attending the Tertiary Care Centre, from September 2019-December 2019. Informed consent was obtained and a comprehensive structured questionnaire was noted regarding the sociodemographic details and reproductive history. Five mL of venous blood was tested for the presence of anti-rubella IgG using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits. Data analysis were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 15.0. Results: The mean age of the population was 23.26±5 years. Overall, seroprevalence was 88.9% (80/90). Immunity was higher (100%) in women of 30-35 years age, 100% in lower upper class, 93.3% with higher education, 90.9% with second trimester, 90.3% multigravida and 90.5% parity. It was also observed that in all the women with low immunity (11.1%) had a history of adverse foetal outcome. Conclusion: A significant proportion of pregnant females are still susceptible to rubella virus infection shows that rubella is endemic in the study area, so antenatal screening for rubella should be mandatory and rubella vaccination in adolescent girls and women of child bearing age is the only way to reduce the menace of CRS in India.

Purpose: The aim of this study ws to evaluate prognostic factors associated with final visual outcome in patients with congenital cataract associated with congenital rubella syndrome.Methods: A prospective interventional analysis of preoperative systemic and ocular features of 56 eyes of 28 seropositive infants of less than 12 months presenting to us with bilateral cataract was performed. All infants were surgically treated with cataract extraction, posterior capsulorhexis, and anterior vitrectomy followed by visual rehabilitation. Intraocular lens implantation was done in children after 2 years of age. Outcome data were collected till children reached the fifth chronological age. Chi-square test was used as a test of significance for qualitative data.Results: Of the 56 eyes, 44.6% eyes had vision better than 20/60. Important preoperative factors related to poor visual prognosis were morphology of cataract (P = 0.004), microphthalmos (P < 0.001), features suggestive of iris hypoplasia (P < 0.001), optic atrophy (P < 0.001), nystagmus (P = 0.02), and associated neurological anomalies (P = 0.0023). We found no significant statistical association between postoperative visual outcome and isolated rubella retinopathy, cloudy cornea, cardiological, and ontological abnormalities.Conclusion: Cataract associated with rubella is a common cause of congenital cataract in developing countries. Determining prognostic factors helps us in parent counseling and planning treatment protocols. Nevertheless, early detection and treatment with adequate multidisciplinary approach remains priority for improving long-term visual outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the immunity level against rubella in pregnant women of different birth cohorts. In total, 512 pregnant women who visited a primary clinic between May 2019 and March 2020 were enrolled. Information in terms of the patients' hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers, birthdate, obstetrical history, and vaccination history were collected. Participants were divided into three generational groups according to the vaccination policy in Japan. Publicly funded vaccination was administered twice as part of a routine program in group A (n = 11), once as part of a routine program and once in a catch-up program in group B (n = 181), and once in group C (n = 320). All groups had some women with negative rubella HI antibody titers (7.6% of all the women, 18.2% of group A, 9.4% of group B, and 6.3% of group C) and those with rubella HI antibody titers of ≤1:16 (45.1% of all women, 90.9% of group A, 56.4% of group B, and 37.2% of group C). Rubella HI antibody titers differed between the groups; group C had higher titers than that in group B. In groups B and C, the proportions of women with rubella HI antibody titers of ≤1:16 were not statistically different between primipara and multipara. Our study showed that an increase in immunity to rubella, a vaccine-preventable disease, is nevertheless required among childbearing women to prevent rubella and congenital rubella syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• One and two doses of rubella containing vaccines (RCV) are highly immunogenic for a long period of time. • RCV are effective in preventing rubella and CRS. • RCV are safe. Rubella containing vaccines (RCV) prevent rubella virus infection and subsequent congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). To update the evidence on immunogenicity, duration of protection, effectiveness and safety of RCV, we conducted a systematic literature review. We searched EMBASE and SCOPUS, using keywords for rubella vaccine in combination with immunogenicity (seroconversion and seropositivity), duration of protection, efficacy/effectiveness, and safety. Original research papers involving at least one dose of RCV (at any age), published between 1-1-2010 and 17-5-2019 were included. Where appropriate, meta-analyses were performed. Quality of included studies was assessed using GRADE methodology. We included 36 papers (32 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 4 observational studies) on immunogenicity (RA27/3 strain) in children and adolescent girls, 14 papers (5 RCTs and 9 observational studies) on duration of protection, one paper on vaccine effectiveness (VE) (BRDII strain), and 74 studies on safety, including three on safety in pregnancy. Meta-analysis of immunogenicity data showed 99% seroconversion (95% CI: 98–99%) after a single dose of RCV in children, independent of co-administration with other vaccines. Seroconversion after RCV1 below 9 months of age (BRDII strain, at 8 months) was 93% (95% CI: 92–95%). For duration of protection, the included studies showed a seropositivity of 88%-100% measured 1–20 years after one or two RCV doses. The single study on VE of BRDII strain, reported 100% VE after one and two doses. Among 34,332 individuals participating in the RCTs, 140 severe adverse events (SAEs) were reported as possibly related to RCV. Among the case reports on SAEs, the association with RCV was confirmed in one report (on fulminant encephalitis). Among 3,000 pregnant women who were inadvertently vaccinated, no SAEs were reported. One and two doses of RCV are highly immunogenic for a long period of time, effective in preventing rubella and CRS, and safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rubella viral infection in pregnant women is a Global Public Health concern as it has a devastating effect on developing foetus causing adverse foetal outcome or Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS). Aim: To recognise the proportion of pregnant women susceptible to Rubella infections so as to discern the risk of CRS. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 rural pregnant women attending the Tertiary Care Centre, from September 2019-December 2019. Informed consent was obtained and a comprehensive structured questionnaire was noted regarding the sociodemographic details and reproductive history. Five mL of venous blood was tested for the presence of anti-rubella IgG using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits. Data analysis were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 15.0. Results: The mean age of the population was 23.26±5 years. Overall, seroprevalence was 88.9% (80/90). Immunity was higher (100%) in women of 30-35 years age, 100% in lower upper class, 93.3% with higher education, 90.9% with second trimester, 90.3% multigravida and 90.5% parity. It was also observed that in all the women with low immunity (11.1%) had a history of adverse foetal outcome. Conclusion: A significant proportion of pregnant females are still susceptible to rubella virus infection shows that rubella is endemic in the study area, so antenatal screening for rubella should be mandatory and rubella vaccination in adolescent girls and women of child bearing age is the only way to reduce the menace of CRS in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The Philippines does not have a national congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) surveillance or registry. Regular monitoring of CRS cases in hospitals, including in a Philippine tertiary hospital, helped in the past to provide clinico-epidemiologic data on CRS. This study aimed to continue providing clinico-epidemiologic data on CRS cases seen in the Philippine tertiary hospital from 2009-2012 and 2019-2022 and compare the cases seen from said timelines., Methods: A cross-sectional study was used, employing chart review of patients newly diagnosed with CRS from 2009-2012 and 2019-2022 in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the Philippine tertiary hospital., Results: Forty-two patients newly diagnosed with CRS from 2009-2012 and 2019-2022 were included. Only 14 (33%) were serologically-confirmed cases (albeit qualitatively). Median age (first and third interquartile ranges) at consult was 1 year (0.4, 2.5). Twenty-four (57%) patients had maternal history of rashes and/or fever. Trimester of pregnancy when mother became symptomatic was not significantly correlated with chief complaint (p=0.20) and numbers of ophthalmic (p=0.68) and systemic manifestations (p=0.32). Cataract was the most common ophthalmic manifestation present in 40 (95%) patients. Twenty-six (62%) patients had other associated systemic findings of which hearing loss was the most common. Only 29 of 40 patients with cataract underwent lensectomy, with 23 patients having poor visual prognosis prior to surgery (5 with nystagmus alone, 10 with nystagmus and strabismus, and 8 with strabismus alone)., Discussion: Using ophthalmic manifestations as primary indicator, this study provided an update on the CRS cases in the country. Laboratory confirmation remains a challenge in diagnosing CRS as the tests are costly and not widely available. There was increase from 2009-2012 compared to 2019-2022 in number of patients who underwent surgical treatment for cataract but visual outcomes were suboptimal due to delay in consultation. Although there was a decrease in number of CRS cases seen in the Philippine tertiary hospital, this cannot be attributed to increased rubella-containing vaccine (RCV) coverage alone., Conclusion: Provision of data from individual hospital-based studies similar to this highlights the need for a national CRS surveillance system or registry. This can better gauge the burden of CRS and identify the gap in RCV coverage., Competing Interests: All authors declared no conflicts of interest., (© 2024 Acta Medica Philippina.)

Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) consists of hearing impairment, ophthalmology abnormalities, and congenital heart disease in children, resulting from rubella infection during pregnancy. Rubella vaccine has been implemented as national immunization program in Indonesia since 2017, and needed to be evaluated. This study aimed to report the CRS patients’ profile of Audiology Outpatient Clinic in Surabaya. A descriptive study from patient’s medical record was conducted in Dr. Soetomo Hospital Surabaya from January 2016 to December 2017. CRS was categorized using World Health Organization classification. Suspected infants with CRS burden were assessed by Otoacoustic Emission and rubella antibody test. Ninety five infants suspected with CRS classified as laboratory- confirmed CRS (58.95%), clinically confirmed CRS (15.79%), and discarded CRS (25.26%). Clinical manifestations included combination of congenital heart disease and hearing impairment (17.89%), congenital heart disease, ophthalmology abnormalities, and hearing impairment (16.84%), and hearing impairment and ophthalmology abnormalities (13.68%). The data show a high burden of CRS in Surabaya. These implies the urgent need for national rubella immunization program.

Background: Definition of Congenital Ruben Syndrome (CRS): a disease caused by rubella virus infection. Routine surveil- lance of CRS is part of a government pro- gram in documenting the incidence of CRS so that infants with CRS are diagnosed promptly and receive appropriate care. Objective: This study aims to repodiology Outpatient General Hospital Dr. Soetomo Surabaya.Method: A descriptive study from CRS surveillance data for the period from January 1st until December 31rd, 2015. Data was from Infants who came to the Audiology Outpatient General Hospital Dr. Soetomo Surabaya and did hearing and serological examination. Results: A total of 65 infants were involved in surveillance. The highest num- ber of patients was the age group 1-

Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) consists of hearing impairment, ophthalmology abnormalities, and congenital heart disease in children, resulting from rubella infection during pregnancy. Rubella vaccine has been implemented as national immunization program in Indonesia since 2017, and needed to be evaluated. This study aimed to report the CRS patients' profile of Audiology Outpatient Clinic in Surabaya. A descriptive study from patient's medical record was conducted in Dr. Soetomo Hospital Surabaya from January 2016 to December 2017. CRS was categorized using World Health Organization classification. Suspected infants with CRS burden were assessed by Otoacoustic Emission and rubella antibody test. Ninety five infants suspected with CRS classified as laboratory- confirmed CRS (58.95%), clinically confirmed CRS (15.79%), and discarded CRS (25.26%). Clinical manifestations included combination of congenital heart disease and hearing impairment (17.89%), congenital heart disease, ophthalmology abnormalities, and hearing impairment (16.84%), and hearing impairment and ophthalmology abnormalities (13.68%). The data show a high burden of CRS in Surabaya. These implies the urgent need for national rubella immunization program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Epidemiological Review / Przegląd Epidemiologiczny is the property of National Institute of Public Health - National Institute of Hygiene and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)