Siriphone Virachith

DISCUSSION In this study, we found low sufficient or immunisation protection against tetanus and diphtheria among Lao adolescents from Vientiane Capital and Bolikhamxay province. The proportion of participants with sufficient levels of antibodies against diphtheria was only 26% (vs. around 50% in a study from Thailand) [20]. A low diphtheria seroprotection is concerning and may indicate susceptibility in younger ages where the disease is more severe [15].

These data contrasted to the low seroprevalence found in Lao blood donors, female garment factory workers and healthcare workers from other provinces. 2 Xaydalasouk K. Strobel M. Buisson Y. Black A.P. Muller C.P. Seroprevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B and C virus infections in female workers of Lao garment factories. PLoS One.