Seroprevalence of hepatitis B in two period birth cohorts of Bolivian children: effect of universal vaccination.

Background: Since 2000 universal routine immunization against the hepatitis B virus (HBV) was implemented in Bolivia. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of markers against HBV in two different birth cohorts (pre-universal vaccine cohort and post-universal vaccine cohort) from Cochabamba, Bolivia.

Methods: We performed a school-based seroepidemiological survey (n = 424) of HBV in 2010 in the Cochabamba region.

Seroprevalence of varicella-zoster virus infection in children from Cochabamba: tropical or temperate pattern?

Objectives: To determine the seroprevalence of varicella-zoster viral (VZV) infections in schoolchildren from the Cochabamba region (Bolivia), and its association with socio-demographic variables, socio-economic status and geographical location.

Methods: Seroepidemiological survey (n = 436) on VZV of schoolchildren living in the Cochabamba region of Bolivia in 2010. An ELISA test was used to measure varicella antibodies.

Measles in Bolivia: A 'honeymoon period'.

Background: Although measles is a highly infectious disease, the live measles vaccine provides protection for over 20 years, and immunity may be lifelong. This study assessed measles seroprevalence in schoolchildren in the Cochabamba region of Bolivia.

Methods: A seroepidemiological survey of measles immunity in 5-16-year-old schoolchildren (n=441) living in the Cochabamba region of Bolivia was performed in March and April of 2010.