Serostatus of IgG antibody against mumps virus in adult population of Al Madinah Al Munawarah, Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency and distribution of mumps-specific IgG antibodies among the healthy adult Saudi population in Al Madinah Al Munawarah, Saudi Arabia, where mandatory vaccination against measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) has been implemented for 30 years. METHODS: Qualitative and quantitative indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to determine the mumps IgG antibody levels in sera collected from 429 individuals, including 224 men and 205 women. Participants were stratified into 3 age groups according to vaccination history (<20, 21-30, and >31 years). RESULTS: The overall seroprevalence of mumps antibodies in our population was 79.0%. The highest proportion of individuals with IgG antibody seropositivity, at 87.8% (95% confidence interval (95% CI): 84.7%-90.8%), was observed among the <20 years age group, who received 2 doses of vaccine. No significant relationships were observed between mumps seropositivity and age group or gender. The multivariable analysis identified the male gender and the age group >31 years as factors associated with an increased likelihood of seronegativity. Al Madinah Al Munawarah has achieved increased anti-mumps antibody seroprevalence since the implementation of the 2-dose MMR vaccination schedule. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our study findings, we recommend that serological screening be performed to assess the need for mumps vaccination among adults at high risk for exposure and transmission.