Analysis on epidemiological characteristics of hand foot mouth disease in Hanzhong, Shaanxi, 2010-2015

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of hand foot mouth disease (HMFD) in Hanzhong, Shaanxi province, during 2010-2015, and provide evidence for prevention and control of HFMD. Methods Epidemiological analysis on the incidence of HFMD in Hanzhong during 2010-2015 was conducted. Results A total of 23 082 HFMD cases, including 246 severe cases (1.07%),were reported in Hanzhong from 2010 to 2015. The annual average incidence was 111.94/100 000. Ten cases died, the case fatality was 0.04%. Most cases occurred from April to July. The annual incidence of HFMD in plain counties was significantly higher than that in mountain counties (2=234.09, P0.05). The incidence in males was higher than that in females (2=31.05, P0.05). The incidence was higher in age group 0-5 years, especially in 1-3 years old children outside child care settings(2=474.91, P0.05). The positive rate of enterovirus 71 (EV71) decreased year by year, but it was still the major pathogens in severe cases (74.32%), and the positive rate other enteroviruses increased year by year (2=197.80, P0.05). Conclusion The incidence of HFMD had obvious seasonality, area and population specific characteristics in Hanzhong. It is necessary to take comprehensive measures and promote the use of EV71 inactivated vaccine to prevent and control the incidence of HFMD.