Epidemiological characteristics of measles in Yichang from 2009-2021 / 公共卫生与预防医学

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the epidemic situation of measles in Yichang from 2009 to 2021, and to provide scientific evidence for the control and elimination of measles. Methods Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to analyze the case data of measles cases reported by the notifiable infectious disease reporting system and measles surveillance system in Yichang from 2009 to 2021. Results A total of 364 cases of confirmed measles were reported in Yichang from 2009 to 2021, with an average annual incidence rate of 0.68/100 000. During these years, the incidence rates fluctuated from 0.5 to 28.87/100 000. The epidemic peak of measles was from January to July. Most cases were concentrated in five regions including Xiling, Wujiagang, Yiling, Dangyang and Yidu, accounting for 66.48% of all cases. More male cases were reported. The age of these patients ranged from < 1 month to 68 years, in which a great majority were infants (32.14%) and adults between 20 and 49 years old (48.08%). The five most common occupations of measles patients were scattered children, farmers, housekeeping or unemployed, workers and students, with the scattered children being the highest proportion accounting for 42.58%. There were 72 cases (19.78%) with the history of measles vaccine immunization, 113 cases (31.04%) without the immunization history, and 179 cases (49.18%) with unknown immunization history. Conclusion Incidence rates of measles in Yichang remains at a low level from 2009 to 2021. Young age groups and adults are the key groups for measles prevention and control. Strategies and measures such as immune strengthening for key areas and key populations will help improve the effect of measles prevention and control.