Spatial distribution of hot spots of bacterial dysentery and related environmental factors in southwestern China

Objective To explore the spatial distribution characteristics of the bacillary dysentery in southwestern China and its relationship with natural environment and socio-economic level.

Methods The incidence data of bacillary dysentery from 2005 to 2014 collected from China infectious disease reporting system, meteorological data, the geographic environment and the socio-economic data in southwestern provinces (Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet) were used to analyze the spatial distribution of hot spots and cold spots of bacillary dysentery clusters and its relationship with environmental factors.

Results From 2005 to 2014, the incidence of bacillary dysentery was high in an area extending from mid-western Sichuan to northwest corner of Yunnan and southeast area of Tibet. There were significant differences in meteorological factors, geographic environment and socio-economic factors between hot spot and cold spot areas. The air temperature, precipitation and relative humidity in hot spot areas were lower than those in cold spot areas, which was inconsistent with the results of most previous studies. The hot spots were mainly in ethnic minority area, where geographic environment and economic development level were the main factors affecting the incidence of bacillary dysentery.

Conclusion The spatial distribution of cold and hot spots of bacillary dysentery in southwestern China were closely related to meteorological, topographical, economic, social and cultural factors. Multi-factor comprehensive analysis is needed to discuss the relationship between the disease and environment, and it is necessary to take targeted measures in key areas to control the epidemic of bacillary dysentery effectively.