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A SURVEY FOR RUBELLA VIRUS AND ANTIBODIES AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Rubella, commonly known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection that can have severe consequences during pregnancy, leading to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in newborns. CRS can result in various birth defects, including deafness, blindness, and heart abnormalities. Despite the availability of vaccines, rubella outbreaks still occur, especially in regions with low vaccination coverage. Understanding the prevalence of rubella virus and antibodies among pregnant women is crucial for assessing the risk of CRS and implementing effective preventive measures.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The prevalence of rubella virus and antibodies among pregnant women remains a concern, particularly in regions with inadequate vaccination coverage. Without adequate surveillance and understanding of the current situation, it's challenging to assess the risk of congenital rubella syndrome and implement targeted interventions to mitigate its impact.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of rubella virus and antibodies among pregnant women. Specific objectives include:

i. To evaluate the impact of rubella vaccination coverage on the prevalence of rubella virus among pregnant women.

ii. To determine the seroprevalence of rubella antibodies among pregnant women in the study population.

iii. To find out the association between maternal rubella infection during pregnancy and the risk of congenital rubella syndrome in newborns.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of rubella vaccination coverage on the prevalence of rubella virus among pregnant women?

ii. What is the seroprevalence of rubella antibodies among pregnant women in the study population?

iii. How does maternal rubella infection during pregnancy associate with the risk of congenital rubella syndrome in newborns?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Hypothesis I

H0: There is no significant impact of rubella vaccination coverage on the prevalence of rubella virus among pregnant women.

H1: There is a significant impact of rubella vaccination coverage on the prevalence of rubella virus among pregnant women.

Hypothesis II

H0: There is no significant seroprevalence of rubella antibodies among pregnant women in the study population.

H2: There is a significant seroprevalence of rubella antibodies among pregnant women in the study population.

Hypothesis III

H0: There is no significant association between maternal rubella infection during pregnancy and the risk of congenital rubella syndrome in newborns.

H3: There is a significant association between maternal rubella infection during pregnancy and the risk of congenital rubella syndrome in newborns.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study's findings will provide valuable insights into the prevalence of rubella virus and antibodies among pregnant women, aiding in the assessment of CRS risk and the development of targeted interventions to prevent its occurrence.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study will focus on pregnant women within a specific geographic region or population, aiming to assess the prevalence of rubella virus and antibodies among this group.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

Limitations may include potential biases in sample selection, reliance on self-reported vaccination history, and challenges in accurately assessing rubella infection timing during pregnancy.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Rubella: A contagious viral infection, also known as German measles, which can cause severe complications during pregnancy.

Seroprevalence: The proportion of individuals in a population who test positive for a specific antibody in their blood serum.

Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS): A condition resulting from maternal rubella infection during pregnancy, leading to various birth defects in newborns.

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