Preliminary study on recurrence with viruses causing hand foot and mouth disease

Objective To understand the incidence characteristics of recurrence with viruses causing hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and provide evidence for HFMD prevention and control. Methods The surveillance data of HFMD in Fujian province from 2010 to 2012 were analyzed by using SAS 9.0. Results A total of 209 733 HFMD cases were reported, in which 4192 were recurrence. The recurrence rate was 20.39‰. More recurrence occurred during the high incidence period, and in urban areas and in males. The intervals between the first infection and the second infection in 68.08% of the cases were less than 360 days. The major pathogen causing recurrence was EV71 (43/97), the recurrence had led to severe disease (19/4192), and the difference in case fatality between recurrence and the first infection had no statistical significance. Recurrence might caused by the same pathogen or by different pathogens. Conclusion The incidence of recurrence with viruses causing HFMD was underestimated in study. It is necessary to strengthen the surveillance of HFMD. Close attention should be paid to children aged <4 years who are more likely to be re-infected within 1 year after the first infection. When recurrence occurs, the prevention of severe disease should be considered.