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Study in Singapore
Wide variations of antibodies in influenza-infected
Photo: ReutersMADRID, 14 Abr. (EUROPA PRESS) -
An analysis of blood samples taken before, during and after an epidemic wave of influenza A (H1N1) in Singapore in 2009 shows a wide variation in risk of infection and antibody levels between those who suffered the infection. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association "(JAMA), showed that younger and military personnel had the highest rates of infection in relation to other groups.
The scientists, led by Mark I.C. Chen Tan Tock Seng Hospital in Singapore, conducted a study using blood samples to determine levels of antibodies against influenza A (H1N1) in 2009 as a marker of infection in different population groups to compare the risk of infection in these groups and investigate the risk factors for infection.
The study included serum samples from four different groups: general population, military personnel, staff of intensive care at a hospital and staff and residents of care facilities long term.
A fourfold increase or greater in antibody levels between any of the three samples was defined as serological evidence of H1N1 seroconversion, development of detectable antibodies in their blood directed against an infectious agent.
The baseline concentration of 40 or more was observed in 2.6 percent of community members, 9.4 percent of military personnel, 6.6 percent of hospital staff, and 6.7 percent of participants from plants long-term care.
The researchers found that participants with one or more follow-up serum samples, 29.4 percent of military personnel was seroconverso compared with 13.5 percent of community members, 6.5 percent hospital personnel and 1.2 percent of participants in long-term care. Further analysis indicated that the existence of another member in the household who was seroconverso was associated with an increased likelihood of infection.
The study also shows the variation in the risk of infection, with younger age groups and military personnel with infection rates much higher. The lowest rates of infection were in older participants and corroborated other epidemiological observations.
The researchers also found only 13 percent of seroconverso community group, which supports the case of vaccination conducted in populations for which protection is recommended.
The authors conclude that the study shows a wide variation in infection rates to determine the serum according to age groups and collectives, which suggests that the risks specific to the context should be taken into account and that measures should be adapted to the population under risk.