Objective  To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of brucellosis in Zibo, Shandong province, from 2011 to 2022, and identify the populations at high risk, spatiotemporal distribution, and clustering areas to support targeted prevention and control of human brucellosis.

Methods The incidence data of human brucellosis in Zibo during 2011−2022 were collected from China Disease Prevention and Control Information System. Hierarchical cluster analysis and elbow method were used to explore the distribution patterns by age and area. Spatiotemporal clustering was detected by using a spatial scan statistic based on a Poisson regression model.

Results A total of 1,693 human brucellosis cases were reported in Zibo during the study period, showing a fluctuating trend of up-down-up. More cases occurred in men than in women, the difference was significant (F=182.401, P<0.001), and the cases in age group 50–<60 years accounted for the highest proportion (30.66%). Clustering analysis identified people aged 45–<70 years as the main group at high-risk (P<0.05). Spatiotemporal scanning revealed Zichuan (LLR=210.437, P<0.001) and Linzi districts (LLR=102.644, P<0.001) as class I clustering areas. Area specific clustering analysis showed that Linzi, Zhoucun, Huantai, Zichuan, and Gaoqing were the areas with high-incidence (U=15.000, P=0.018).

Conclusion The incidence of human brucellosis showed significant clustering in both population and spatial distributions in Zibo. People aged 45−64 years and areas such as Zichuan and Linzi were mostly affected. It is suggested to strengthen health monitoring and targeted interventions in key populations, optimize resource allocation, and improve the local prevention and control of human brucellosis.