Analysis of epidemiological characteristics of hepatitis A from 1995 to 2006 in Huzhou of Zhejiang province

Objective　The present study was designed to analyze the epidemic trends of hepatitis A from 1995 to 2006 in Huzhou City, Zhejiang province, to predict the epidemic trends and provide the scientific basis for the development and revise of prevention and control measures． Methods　Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted on the incidence and epidemiological characteristics of hepatitis A in Huzhou during 1995-2006. Results　The incidence rate of hepatitis A ranged from 5.40/lakh to 59.46/lakh with the annual incidence of 17.60/lakh during this period, which peaked in 1996 and declined gradually afterward, and remained at a relatively low level in recent years. The constituent ratio of hepatitis A in viral hepatitis declined from 54.22% in 1996 to 4.89% in 2006. Most cases were young farmers, but with the trend of shifting to older age group. There were more male cases than female cases. Conclusion　The prevention and control measures of hepatitis A proved to be effective obviously in Huzhou, however, potential risk factors of outbreaks still existed. Comprehensive control measures should be implemented consecutively to block the transmission routes and protect susceptible population.