Primary Article

Epidemic Rubella in Military Recruits

Authors: MAJ DAVID H. GREMILLION MC, USAF, LT COL RITA E. GENGLER NC, USAF, LT COL GEORGE D. LATHROP MC, USAF

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Between Dec 1 and Feb 18, 1976, 320 cases of rubella occurred among recruits and dependent children at two Air Force bases in Illinois and Texas. Only 28 cases (9%) were identified in patients aged 17 and under. Routine serosurveillance before the outbreak revealed protective immunity in 89.1% of trainees. This outbreak emphasizes the changing epidemiology of what was formerly considered a childhood illness, and underscores the failure of herd immunity.

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References