Seroprevalence of varicella-zoster virus in the prevaccine era: A population-based study in Izmir, Turkey

SummaryPurposeTo determine the population-based seroprevalence of varicella zoster virus (VZV) and related risk factors in Izmir.Materials and methodsA population-based household survey was conducted. A representative sample of the population older than 15 years of age was selected using multistage random sampling. A total of 2136 healthy persons participated in this cross-sectional study. The participants completed a questionnaire designed to collect data related to socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors. Blood samples were collected, and VZV-specific IgG was measured using an ELISA.ResultsIn total, 94.3% of individuals were seropositive for VZV. The difference between VZV seroprevalence in urban and rural populations was significant (OR: 2.6 (95% CI, 1.7–3.8)). No statistically significant differences in seropositivity were observed with respect to other sociodemographic characteristics.ConclusionA large proportion of the participants were found to be immune to VZV.

► The results indicate that all age groups had a high seropositivity rate in Izmir.
► No statistically significant differences between seropositivity and participants sociodemographic characteristics.
► Most of the women of childbearing age were immune to VZV.