Susceptibility to Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in Four Districts of Xaysomboun Province, Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Abstract

Xaysomboun province has some of the lowest health indicators in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the vaccination, susceptibility and exposure status of the population to hepatitis B virus (HBV), measles, rubella, and tetanus. Participants aged 5 years and older were randomly selected from four districts. From each enrolled participant, demographic data and 5 mL of blood sample were taken. HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibodies against HBV, measles, rubella, and tetanus were detected by ELISA. A total of 363 participants (age 5 to 80 years) were included. HBV exposure, as determined by anti-HBV core (anti-HBc) antibodies, was 56.2% overall, and was significantly higher among those aged ≥21 years (78.1%). HBsAg was detected in 9.4% overall and increased to 20% in ages 31–40 years. Only 13.8% of participants had serology indicative of vaccination (anti-HBs positive, anti-HBc negative). Seroprotection against measles was 74.6% overall but only 41.7% in children aged 5–10 years. Anti-rubella IgG was 94.2% overall and high in all age groups. Tetanus seroprevalence was only 47.4% overall but significantly higher in females aged 31–40 (75.6%). We suggest strengthening of routine and booster HBV, measles, and tetanus vaccine coverage in Xaysomboun province.

Comparison of population-based measles-rubella immunoglobulin G antibody prevalence between 2014 and 2019 in Lao People's Democratic Republic: Impacts of the national immunization program

“…However, the IgG prevalence against measles and rubella in the age group of 1-2 years is still in the lower range of the herd immunity threshold. Other seroprevalence studies conducted in several provinces in Lao PDR have also found a low prevalence of measles antibodies among infants and young age groups, given routine and SIA vaccination services [26][27][28][29] . This might indicate heterogeneity in the measles vaccination among provinces or between rural versus urban areas.…”

Hepatitis B virus and other transfusion-transmissible infections in child blood recipients in Lao People’s Democratic Republic: a hospital-based study

“…Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR), which is located in Southeast Asia and has a population of approximately 7 million people, exhibits a high morbidity and mortality due to HBV infection. Vaccination was introduced in 2001 and combined diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenzae vaccine is currently scheduled at 6, 10 and 14 weeks of age 8. Since 2003, birth-dose vaccination is recommended in addition 9.…”

“…Vaccination was introduced in 2001 and combined diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenzae vaccine is currently scheduled at 6, 10 and 14 weeks of age. 8 Since 2003, birth-dose vaccination is recommended in addition. 9 Maternal HBV screening (by HBsAg rapid test) is also recommended, but is unevenly implemented in the country.…”