Epidemiological characteristics and temporal-spatial clustering analysis on severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome in Jinan, 2013–2018

ObjectiveTo analyze the epidemiological characteristics and temporal-spatial clustering of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) in Jinan of Shandong province, and provide scientific evidence for SFTS prevention and control.

MethodsThe data of SFTS cases in Jinan during 2013–2018 were downloaded from National Notifiable Infectious Disease Reporting System of China, and comprehensive analysis on the epidemiological characteristics of SFTS was conducted by using descriptive epidemiological methods and spatial-temporal scan statistics method.

ResultsA total of 385 SFTS cases, including 49 deaths, were reported in Jinan from 2013 to 2018. The average case fatality rate was 12.73%. The cases mainly occurred between April and October with the incidence peak in August. The cases over 50 years old accounted for 90.13% and farmers accounted for 90.91% of the total cases, respectively. The male-female ratio of the cases was 1.07∶1.The top three high-incidence areas were Zhangqiu, Licheng and Changqing, the cases in these areas accounted for 83.12% of the total. Spatial-temporal clustering analysis detected three clusters (one first-class cluster, two second-class clusters) and one suspected cluster with the characteristics of significant spatial-temporal clustering.

ConclusionThe incidence of SFTS had spatial-temporal clustering in Jinan during 2013–2018. According to the spatial and temporal distribution and epidemiological characteristics of SFTS, prevention and control measures, such as health education, surveillance and staff training, should be carried out in key populations in areas with high incidences.