Seroepidemiology study for serogroup A epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis antibody level in the population of recruits

Abstract

Objective To investigate the distribution of serogroup A epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis antibody IgG in recruits, provide scientific evidence for further prevention and control of the disease. Methods By using ELISA, serogroup A epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis antibody IgG serum samples of 360 recruits, who came from 7 provinces during the past four years, were detected, and the positive rate was analysed. Results There was no statistical difference in serum serogroup A epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis antibody IgG levels in each years, which ranged from 66.67% to 96.67% with a average rate of 83.33%, content of antibody ranged from 6.23 μg/mL to 26.47 μg/mL with an average content of 12.42 μg/mL, regional difference existed. The higher level found in recruits from Hubei (96.67%) 、Shandong (91.43%)and Beijing (88.00%), and lower level from Henan (66.67%) and Shaanxi(72.50%). There was no significant correlation between the antibody IgG positive rate and education or occupation background of the recruits before their recruitment (χ2 = 0.12, P > 0.05). Conclusions The positive rate of serogroup A epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis antibody IgG in recruits range from 66.67% to 96.67%, antibody level range from 6.23 μg/mL to 26.47 μg/mL, with a average content of 12.42 (μg/mL. The positive rate for antibody IgG varies in different provinces. It is necessary to give vaccination and education for the recruits to prevent serogroup A epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis spreading. Key words: Meningitis, meningococcal; Antibody level; Epidemiologic investigation