Epidemic Trend of Measles from 1954 to 2003 in Laiwu

Objective This investigation was to alalyze the epidemic characteristics of measles during different periods and probe into measures to accelerate control of measles. Methods Epidemiological data of measles from 1954 to 2003 in Laiwu was analyzed Results in natural infection period(1954-1966)，both incidence and mortality of measles ranked the highest among various in fectious diseases：the epidemic was frequent，with a cycle de of 1-2 years：the incidence in cities was higher than rural regions：the peak of onset was focused on spring with pre-school children as a predominating population. In planned immunization period (1979-2003)，the incidence and mortality of measles dedined substantial-ly with less frequent epidemics and sporadic onsets predominating：the incidence in rural areas was higher than cities：the peak of onset was postponed seasonally with peak value cut flat：the onset population was mainly pre-school children and adults. Condusion We should perfect measles monitoring system，ad-just immunization strategy，further improve the coverage rate of immunization and reduce the onset of measles at a high-risk age.