Epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of severe cases of hand, foot and mouth disease in Taizhou, Zhejiang,2009-2011

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of severe cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) in Taizhou, and provide scientific evidence for the prevention and control of HFMD. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted on the incidence data of severe cases of HFMD in Taizhou from 2009 to 2011 and logistic regression analysis was done to identify the related risk factors. Results Over 97.10% of severe HFMD cases were children aged 5 years and more boys were affected than girls. The severe cases in children outside child care settings accounted for higher proportion. The severe cases were reported in all districts or counties of Taizhou and the incidence peak of severe cases was during May-June. The severe cases were mainly caused by EV71 infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the risk factors included being non-local resident; fatigue, vomiting and EV71 infection. Conclusion It is necessary to conduct health education in floating population to increase their awareness of HFMD to reduce the incidence of HFMD, and strengthen the monitoring of risk factors of severe HFMD and give timely treatment to reduce the case-fatality.