Epidemiological Characteristics of Varicella in Hexi District of Tianjin from 2016 to 2022

Chen Jie

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1001-568X.2024.05.0015

Abstract：OBJECTIVE To investigate the incidence and epidemic characteristics of varicella in Hexi District of Tianjin from 2016 to 2022,so as to provide reference for relevant departments to formulate varicella prevention and control measures.METHODS Reported cards of the varicella cases with addresses in Hexi District of Tianjin from 2016 to 2022 were selected from the China Disease Prevention and Control Information System to conduct statistical analysis of varicella cases.RESULTS A total of 3 929 cases of varicella were reported in Hexi District from 2016 to 2022,with an average annual incidence of 58.56/105.The incidence of varicella in different years was significantly different(χ2=320.52,P＜0.01).From 2016 to 2019,the incidence of varicella in Hexi District showed an increasing trend.The peak of varicella incidence in Hexi district was concentrated from April to June and from November to January of the next year,and the trough period was in February and July to August.The highest incidence rate was found in the 5～9 year old group,and there was significant difference in incidence among different age groups(χ2=12 796.97,P＜0.01).The incidence of varicella in 0～4 year age group showed a decreasing trend from 2017 to 2022.Students were the main group,and the proportion of employed people,household staff and unemployed people was increasing year by year.CONCLUSION The incidence of varicella in Hexi District has been on the rise from 2016 to 2022,but decreased significantly in the 0～4 year age group.The proportion of reported varicella cases in adults has increased yearly.Relevant departments should take primary schools as the focus of monitoring and strengthen indoor disinfection and ventilation during the high incidence of varicella.More attention should be paid to the varicella epidemic in the adult population,and varicella vaccine should be given to reduce the disease burden caused by varicella if necessary.