Seroprevalence of Varicella-Zoster Virus IgG Among Students of Babol University of Medical Sciences: Importance of Vaccine Strategy for Women of Reproductive Age (2016-2017)

Background and Aims: Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by infection with Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). Although it is usually a self-limited disease, but severe complications may occasionally occur. The aim of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of VZV antibody among students of Babol University of Medical Sciences especially female students in reproductive age. Materials and Methods: 270 students were enrolled to our study. After signing a written informed consent, demographic data and 5 ml blood sample were collected from each participant. Following serum isolation, each serum sample was assessed by ELISA technique for VZV IgG. Results and Conclusion: Of two hundred and seventy students, 197 were female and 73 were male. Out of female students, 145 students (73.6%) were single and in reproductive age. 17.3% of female students and 8.2% of male students were seronegative and susceptible to VZV infection. Besides, 7.9% of unmarried male students and 20.7% of unmarried female students were susceptible to VZV infection. The highest susceptibility to VZV was seen in 18-21 years age group. Therefore, more than 20% of unmarried female students were susceptible to VZV, which can be important regarding infection during pregnancy and subsequent severe complications. Consequently, vaccination for VZV in susceptible students especially unmarried female students is recommended