Rubella-specific IgM antibodies in non-pregnant women in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Rubella can cause arthritis in some women's fingers, wrists, and knees, especially if the infection is complicated. Scarcity of information about the disease in Nigeria, and rubella vaccination is not widely available. This study aimed to look for rubella virus IgM antibodies in non-pregnant women in Rivers State. Method: Ninety-two (92) consenting non-pregnant women attending Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Rivers State, were randomly assessed for the study. The sera were analyzed for detectable anti-rubella IgM antibodies following the manufacturer’s description using ELISA kits. Results: Of the 92 samples evaluated for rubella Immunoglobulin M antibody, 14 (15.2%) were positive, and 78 (84.8%) were negative. None of the socio-demographic factors had significant relation with Rubella anti-IgM seroprevalence (p<0.05). Conclusion: The substantial frequency of IgM antibodies demonstrated the existence of the virus and the possibility of new infections of Rubella in non-pregnant women. To determine the predominance of the rubella infection and subsequently design control tactics against it, a surveillance strategy and education of women regarding the implications of the existence of IgM antibodies would be helpful.