Seropositive Rubella and Toxoplasmosis Among Females Attending Saudi Hospital.

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasma gondii and rubella virus are significant health concerns among women. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the prevalence of their antibodies. Objective: This study aimed to explore the prevalence of rubella and toxoplasmosis immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies among females who attended different clinics in King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Method: A retrospective observational study was conducted among nonpregnant women who attended various clinics at King Abdulaziz University Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The study included 540 female participants who visited various clinics, with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of 31.92 (6.175) years and a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 32 (8). These women were tested for rubella and toxoplasmosis IgG and immunoglobulin M (IgM) from January 2021 to June 2022. ELISA test for detecting antitoxoplasmosis and antirubella IgG and IgM antibodies was conducted using kits manufactured by Abbott, located at Max-Planck-Ring 2, 65,205 Wiesbaden, Germany. Results: The majority of the participants were from Saudi Arabia (78.1%). Most females (73.3%) had positive results for rubella IgG, while only 5.6% tested positive for toxoplasmosis IgG. A significantly higher percentage of positive rubella-G antibodies was seen between those with positive toxoplasmosis IgG and those with negative toxoplasmosis IgG (93.3% vs. 76.4%, p=0.032). Non-Saudi females had a significantly higher rate of positive toxoplasmosis IgG than Saudi women (15.4% vs. 2.9%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of rubella antibodies and a low prevalence of toxoplasmosis antibodies among females living in Saudi Arabia, with a higher prevalence of toxoplasmosis antibodies seen among non-Saudi females. A significant association between the prevalence of rubella and toxoplasmosis antibodies was found. Therefore, raising awareness about the risks and prevention measures of toxoplasmosis is crucial, emphasizing hygiene practices.