Epidemiology of scrub typhus in Jiangsu province,2006-2015

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of scrub typhus in Jiangsu province,and provide evidence for the prevention and control of scrub typhus. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted by using the incidence data of scrub typhus in Jiangsu from 2006-2015. Results A total of 5 531 cases of scrub typhus were reported in Jiangsu during this period. The average annual incidence was 0.70/100 000. The incidence was stable during 2006-2010,but increased from 2011-2015(2=4 264.225,P0.001). The incidence peak was autumn and winter. The cases reported in October and November accounted for 95.91%(5 305/5 531) of the total cases. The incidence was higher in women(2=22.482,P0.001) and the incidence increased with age. In women,the incidence rate in age group 65-years was highest,and in men,the incidence was highest in age group 75-years. The cases in age groups 60-69 years,70-79 years and 80-89 years increased year by year(2=8.072,P=0.005；2=14.491,P0.001；2=12.356,P0.001). The average annual incidence was highest in Yancheng (3.50/100 000),followed by Taizhou (2.78/100 000).The incidence was stable in all areas during 2006-2010,and began to increase in 2011. The increase was more obvious in northern and middle areas in Jiangsu. Conclusion The incidence of scrub typhus was high in Jiangsu. The obvious increase began in 2011 and the epidemic area was in expanding. More women and the elderly were affected. It is necessary to conduct health education in population at high risk in areas with high incidence of scrub typhus in Jiangsu.