Epidemiological characteristics of hand, foot and mouth disease in Tibet, 2009–2018

  Objective  To understand the epidemiological and etiological characteristics of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) in Tibet, and provide scientific evidence for prevention and control of HFMD in Tibet.

  Methods  Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted by using the incidence data of HFMD cases and surveillance data of HFMD Pathogens in Tibet from 2009 to 2018 collected from National Disease Reporting Information System.

  Results  From 2009 to 2018, a total of 14 500 HFMD cases were reported in Tibet, with an annual incidence rate of 46.62/100 000. There were 23 severe cases, but no death case was reported. During these 10 years, the incidence rate peaked every other year. The incidence rate in Lhasa (148.17/100 000), Nyingchi (96.39/100 000) and Ngari (76.89/100 000) ranked top 3 in Tibet. The annual incidence of HFMD peaked firstly during May-July, then in September. The male to female ratio of the cases was 1.29∶1. The case number in children aged 1–4 years was highest, accounting for 67.18% of the total. There were 57 outbreaks in Tibet during this period and 90.18% of the cases were distributed in child care settings and primary schools. Cox A16 and EV71 were the main pathogens, accounting for 44.01% and 36.07% respectively.

  Conclusion  From 2009 to 2018, incidence rate of HFMD in Tibet tended to peak every other year, showing obvious regional, seasonal and population distribution characteristics. It is necessary to strengthen the prevention and control of HFMD in spring and summer, then in autumn; in young children and in urban areas. EV71 vaccination campaign should also be carried out to prevent severe cases of HFMD.