Surveillance and analysis of hand, foot and mouth disease in Zibo city, Shandong province,2009

Objective To determine the epidemiological characteristics of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) in Zibo city, Shandong province. Methods Surveillance of HFMD was conducted using the national disease surveillance information system. Some cases were individually investigated and etiologically studied. Results A total of 5463 patients of HFMD who lived in Zibo in 2009 were reported, including 10 severe cases. No deaths were found. The annual incidence rate was 126.78/lakh, and the incidence rates were significantly different between districts and counties (P＜ 0.01). Children under the age of 5 were mainly affected, boys more prone to infection than girls, with significant difference (P＜ 0.01). The peak of onset was from April to August. Etiological test of 40 samples found 13 EV71-positive cases, and 14 positives for other enteroviruses. Conclusion The incidence of hand, foot and mouth disease has obvious seasonal, age and gender differences. Surveillance and analysis for this key disease should be strengthened to prevent its spread and epidemic.