Discussion on epidemiology of measles and control measures in Quzhou municipality in Zhejiang province, 1985 - 2010

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of measles in Quzhou from 1985 to 2010 and provide evidence for the development of measles elimination strategies and measures. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted on the incidence data of measles reported through disease reporting information system, public health emergency reporting system and measles surveillance system. The time distribution of measles cases was analyzed with concentration grade and circular distribution methods. Results A total of 5116 measles cases were reported in Quzhou during this period with the average annual incidence of 8.30/lakh. The epidemic occurred every 4-5 years, which mainly affected the people who failed to vaccination and the floating population. The incidence peak occurred in late April and early May. The proportions of measles cases in age group of 1 and 15 increased obviously. The cases in children outside child care settings and farmers increased by years. The collection rate of serum samples was only 80%, and 70% of the cases were without or with unknown immunization history. Conclusion It is necessary to increase the coverage of measles vaccination in susceptible population, conduct supplementary immunization activity in target population and strengthen the measles surveillance and control of nosocomial infection, which are effective to control and eliminate measles.