Seroprevalence of varicella antibodies in healthcare workers in Imam Reza hospital of Kermanshah-Iran

The objective of this study was to assess the seroprevalence of varicella antibodies in healthcare workers and students of healthcare professions and to determine the validity of the self-reported varicella and zona history for detecting susceptible subjects. Personnel of Imam Reza hospital (Kermanshah-Iran) and students were recruited and a 5 mL blood sample was obtained from all participants. A case report form, including previous self-reported history of varicella and zona, was completed. A total of 188 healthcare workers (mean age, 30.6 years; S.D., 4.0; range, 23–40) and 62 students (mean age, 19.8 years; S.D., 2.5; range, 18–25) were recruited. The prevalence of varicella antibodies was 84.5% in healthcare workers and 84.5% in students. The preferred approach in these groups at risk of varicella will be to undergo serologic testing before immunization in those with negative or unknown history of varicella.