Epidemiological characteristics of pertussis in Baoji, Shaanxi, 1954–2019

ObjectiveTo analyze the epidemiological characteristics of pertussis in Baoji, Shaanxi, from 1954 to 2019.

MethodsThe incidence data of pertussis in Baoji from 1954 to 2019 were collected for a descriptive epidemiological analysis.

ResultsA total of 73 809 pertussis cases were reported in Baoji from 1954 to 2019 with an average annual incidence rate of 39.29 per 100 000. Ten or less pertussis cases were reported annually during 1999–2004, but the reported cases increased year by year from 2015. Among these cases, the cases reported in Fengxiang, Qishan and Fufeng counties accounted for 51.84%. The reported cases peaked in May during 1970–2008 and peaked in August during 2009–2019. The cases in <1 year old children accounted for 14.66% of reported cases in 1978–2008, and increased to 65.45% in 2009–2019. The analysis on the immunization history in 235 cases indicated that 32.81% of the cases had no DTwP immunization history, and the cases with 4 doses of the vaccination accounted for 28.45%.

ConclusionThe effect of pertussis prevention and control was good in Baoji, but there was resurgence of pertussis. Children less than 1 year old are susceptible. Timely DTaP vaccination and surveillance should be strengthened in the future.