Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus serosurvey in Saudi children.

Objective: To evaluate immune protection against vaccine-preventable diseases targeted by the Expanded Program of Immunization in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: The study was carried out from September 2001 to February 2002. Using multistage sampling techniques, samples were collected from 5 regions of Saudi Arabia and sent for laboratory assay from the following age groups; 50 samples at 12 months, 50 at 6 years, and 100 at 17 years.

Serosurvey of measles, mumps and rubella antibodies in Saudi children.

Objective: A serosurvey study to evaluate the proportion of children with antibodies against diseases targeted by the Expanded Program of Immunization in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Methods: Using multistage sampling techniques, we collected samples and sent them for laboratory assay from the following age groups; 100 samples at 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 6 years, 13 years, and 17 years. We conducted the study from September 2001 to February 2002.

Changes in epidemiological pattern of Meningococcal disease in Saudi Arabia. Does it constitute a new challenge for prevention and control?

Objective: Meningococcal meningitis epidemics, which occurred in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) coincided with Hajj and Umra seasons; the 2 major pilgrims to Muslims. In many countries, the disease showed major changes of its epidemiological determinants, in particular to age and prevailing serogroup. This study was conducted to determine the epidemiological trend of meningococcal meningitis disease in KSA.