Screening and immunization of rubella-susceptible women. Experience in a large, prepaid medical group.

Four hundred and fifty childbearing-aged women were screened for rubella hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody after a clinical history of susceptibility was obtained. One hundred and forty-nine (33%) were found to be susceptible (titers less than 1:8), pointing out the need for a move active immunization program for susceptible young women and for routine vaccination of children. Clinical history correlated poorly with the level of HI antibody. One hundred percent of the patients were vaccinated and protective antibody titres developed in 97%. Since titers are higher after infection than after vaccination, periodic reevaluation of the vaccinated group may be indicated if immunity is to be ensured.