Analysis of the epidemiologic characteristics and countermeasures of measles in Binzhou, Shandong， 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the epidemiologic characteristics of measles in Binzhou, Shandong province in 2008. Methods Descriptive epidemiologic approaches were adopted to analyze the epidemiologic characteristics of measles in Binzhou in 2008, measles IgG antibody detected by ELISA. ResultsA total of 811 cases of measles were reported in the city in 2008, 464 confirmed by laboratory tests, accounting for 57.21% of all reported cases. There were 374 cases confirmed via clinical epidemiology, accounting for 42.79%. The annual incidence rate was 21.73/lakh. Both sporadic cases and outbreaks were present as the incidence pattern, which demonstrated widespread distribution and significant seasonal peaks: Cases from January to May accounted for 96.05%, suggesting the period from January to April as the incidence peak. Marked differences in regional distribution were observed as the most concentrated area had 66.34% of cases. Children younger than 15 years old accounted for 56.10% of all cases, preschool children accounting for 38.22%, and primary school students 17.39%. 87.92% cases had not been vaccinated or had vague immune history. ConclusionSharp increase in the incidence of measles was shown in Binzhou, Shandong in 2008, with the peak of Junuary to April, onset time was obvious seasonal.