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.