Epidemiology of scarlet fever in China during spring to summer season 2015

Objective To understand the epidemiologic characteristics of scarlet fever in China from January to July in 2015 and provide evidence for scarlet fever prevention and control in the coming autumn and winter. Methods Descriptive epidemiologic analysis was condcuted on the spatial, temporal and population distribution of the scarlet fever cases reported through national infectious disease reporting and management system from January to July 2015. Results A total of 43524 scarlet fever cases were reported during this period, including 1 death. The incidence was 3.2/lakh. The reported cases increased by 44% and 22% respectively compared with the same period in 2014 and the same period in 2011. The reported incidence declined gradually from northern provinces to southern provinces. All the provinces reporting high incidence(5/lakh) were in northern area except Shanghai. Up to 88% of the cases were aged 3 to 9 years and 99% of the cases were school aged or pre school aged children. Conclusion The reported incidence of scarlet fever during January-July 2015 was highest in recent 10 years. It is necessary to strengthen the surveillance for scarlet fever and the prevention and control of scarlet fever in the coming autum and winter in 2015.