Analysis of measles surveillance in Suzhou, Jiangsu,2006-2008

ObjectiveTo determine the epidemiological characteristics of measles in Suzhou, Jiangsu in recent years. MethodsMeasles cases data in the National Information System for Disease Surveillance and the National Information System for Immunization Program from 2006 to 2008 were analyzed using Excel 2003. ResultsFrom 2006 to 2008, a total of 5,134 measles cases were reported in Suzhou with an annually averaged incidence rate of 15.17/105. The peak of incidence was noted from March to May every year. Children younger than six years old and people aged 15-50 years were the major group affected by measles. Infants younger than eight months old accounted for 11.24% in the overall cases; those who had no immunization history and whose immunization history remained unknown accounted for 88.32% and 2.31%, respectively, among children older than eight months. For measles cases older than sixteen years old, 96.13% had no immunization history. Higher incidence rate was observed in migrant population than in resident population every year. ConclusionIncreasing measles incidence rate had been noticed in recent years, primarily due to the lacking of adequate immunization for appropriate age groups in the area. Peaks of incidence rates were found in both younger infants and adults, indicating further improvement in the coverage and timeliness of routine immunization of measles vaccines. Measures should be taken to control the incidence among migrant population and adults. Meanwhile, in order to reduce the incidence rate among infants younger than eight months old, measles vaccine immunization should be advocated in women of child-bearing age.