INCIDENCE OF RUBELLA ANTIBODIES IN FEMALE SUBJECTS.

Sera from females aged 1 to 40 years were assayed for rubella virus antibodies. Results showed that by age 14 years, 60% had antibodies and that by 19 years, 70% were positive. This figure rose to 80% by 24 years of age and remained unchanged in older age groups.A comparison of the incidence of high and low levels of antibodies in each age group revealed that antibody levels fell between ages 20 and 40 years. Only 20% of individuals in the latter group had a high antibody level compared to 80% in the former.These results are discussed as they relate to the problems of reinfection and possible vaccination procedures.