Epidemiology of varicella in Shaanxi Province during 2005 and 2017 / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

ABSTRACT

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of varicella in Shaanxi Province from 2005 to 2017 and help updating of government policies for varicella control. Methods: The epidemiological data of varicella in Shaanxi Province during 2005 and 2017 were collected from Disease Surveillance Information Reporting System of Chinese Information System. Results: A total of 101370 varicella cases were reported with only one death from 2005 to 2017. The average incidence was 20.77/105, and an obvious seasonal prevalence with peak in June and December was observed. Additionally, a higher incidence of 208.37/105 was shown in children between 0 to 14 years old. Moreover, there were 98 outbreaks, among which 82.2% occurred in elementary schools. Furthermore, Clade2 was the main epidemic strain in Shaanxi. Conclusion: Children are at a high risk for varicella infection, so the surveillance should be strengthened in elementary schools. It is critical to isolate infected cases timely and improve vaccine implementation among pupils.