Seroprevalence of Measles and Mumps Antibodies among Medical and Paramedical Students at An-Najha National University, Palestine (2020-2021)

Objective: This study assessed measles and mumps seroprevalence among medical and paramedical students at An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine, a group at elevated occupational risk. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, serum samples from 401 students (aged 18-23 years) were analyzed for measles-specific and mumps-specific IgG antibodies using quantitative ELISA. Participants completed questionnaires detailing MMR vaccination history and demographics. Key Findings: Measles seropositivity was 66.8% (268/401), mumps seropositivity was 76.3% (306/401), and combined measles and mumps seropositivity was 54.1% (217/401). Seropositivity for measles antibodies showed significant associations with age and gender. Conclusion: Seroprevalence levels for measles and mumps antibodies were suboptimal in this cohort of future healthcare workers. Given their heightened exposure risk, a booster vaccination strategy is recommended. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the factors contributing to low immunity. Recommendations: A booster vaccination strategy is recommended.