Seroprevalence of Rubella Virus, Cytomegalovirus and Herpes Simplex Virus–2 among Pregnant Women at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana

Abstract

Background: Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) are important viruses associated with adverse outcomes in neonates. Their occurrence and frequencies are, however, least studied in many African countries including Ghana.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with rubella virus, CMV and HSV-2 exposures among pregnant women attending the ante-natal unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. The study was carried out between January 2013 and March 2013. IgM and IgG antibodies were tested to assess the current and past history of virus exposure.

Results: Ninety one subjects were screened for both CMV and HSV-2 infections, and 89 for rubella virus infection. CMV infection had the highest IgG and IgM seropositivity of 95.6% (95% CI: 89.1% - 98.8%) and 38.5% (95% CI: 28.4% - 49.2%) respectively. This was followed by rubella virus infection with IgG positivity of 92.3% (95% CI: 87.4% - 98.2%), IgM of 6.6% (95% CI: 2.5% - 13.8%), and HSV-2 IgG positivity of 68.1% (95% CI: 57.5% - 77.5%). Fifty four (60.7%) subjects were co-infected with all the three viruses while 32 (36%) were co-infected by a combinations of two viruses. There was no association between virus exposure and various socio-demographic indicators and risk factors.

Conclusion: This study has provided pilot data on herpes and rubella viruses infections among pregnant women in Ghana. A larger prevalence study is recommended to inform policy makers and health stakeholders.