Viral antibody titer trends of varicella, mumps, measles, and rubella in children residing in institutions for children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities

Abstract

  Long term residents of institutions for children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities have poor opportunities for booster effect, and are unlikely to maintain antibodies even after vaccination. Changes in enzyme immunoassay for immunoglobulin G against varicella, mumps, measles, and rubella viruses over three years were studied in our institution in children under the age of 18. In the group that did not receive vaccination during the study period, antibody titers decreased, with a particularly marked 47% decrease in mean antibody titers for varicella. In addition to ensuring that vaccinations are administered as many times as necessary, attention should be paid to subsequent infection control measures.