Epidemiology of neonatal tetanus in Taizhuo, Zhejiang,2004-2010

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of neonatal tetanus (NT) in Taizhou and provide scientific evidence for the prevention and control of neonatal tetanus. Methods By using Excel software, statistical analysis was performed based on the incidence data of NT in Taizhou from 2004 to 2010,which was obtained from the notifiable communicable disease reporting system and NT surveillance system. Results A total of 89 NT cases occurred in Taizhou during this period with the incidence of 0.18%. The case number in Wenling was highest. The cases mainly occurred in February, June and November and the male to female ratio was 1.41: 1. All the mothers of sick infants received no tetanus vaccination, and only 39.33% of the mothers received prenatal examination. Nearly all the sick infants were not born in the hospital (except 1 infant) and were delivered by untrained midwifes. Conclusion No obvious increase of NT death was found in Taizhou during 2004-2010,but it is still necessary to strengthen the NT surveillance and health education about NT, conduct tetanus vaccination and provide primary health service for pregnant women to reduce the incidence of NT.