Susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases in a sexually transmitted disease clinic population

Background and Objective: Sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics often serve a population that has low medical care utilization. The objective of this study was to determine the susceptibility of an STD clinic population to vaccine-preventable diseases. Study Design: A cross-sectional study of immunization practices and susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases was undertaken by enrolling consecutive patients attending an STD clinic. Demographic information and a history of disease or immunization was assessed by interview. Immunity to measles and rubella was determined by measuring IgG antibodies by ELISA assays. Results: Of the 288 patients evaluated, the mean age was 28 years and 70.5% were male. Serologically, 16.3% were susceptible to rubella and 8% to measles. Only 8% reported hepatitis B immunization. Although measles protection was high, nearly one in six was susceptible to rubella. Hepatitis B immunization was severely underused. Conclusion: Baltimore STD clinic patients may benefit from an enhanced rubella and hepatitis B prevention strategy.