Analysis of the Epidemiological Characteristics and Spatiotemporal Clustering of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease in Wenjiang District of Chendu from 2019 to 2023

Leng Feifei; Li Mengyao; Lu Yong

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1001-568X.2025.08.0010

Abstract：OBJECTIVE To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and spatiotemporal clustering of hand,foot,and mouth disease(HFMD)in Wenjiang District of Chengdu from 2019 to 2023,to provide evidence for the optimization of epidemic prevention and control measures.METHODS Data on HFMD cases in Wenjiang District from 2019 to 2023 were collected from the Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Information System.The epidemiological characteristics of HFMD,including affected populations,temporal and spatial distribution,were described,and spatiotemporal clustering was analyzed using spatial scan statistics.RESULTS 7 778 HFMD cases were reported from 2019 to 2023,with an average annual incidence rate of 220.08/105.The highest incidence was found in the 1-year-old group(2 247 cases),followed by the 2-year-old group(1 521 cases)and the 3-year-old group(1 493 cases),with most cases occurring among non-institutionalized children.The incidence exhibited 1～2 distinct peak periods,primarily in June,July and November.Cases were reported across all streets,with the highest incidence in Yongquan Street in 2019(984.39/105).Spatiotemporal scan analysis identified 8 clusters.The first-level cluster covered Jinma,Yongquan,and Tianfu streets,with a scan radius of 5.64 km and a clustering period from May 1,2021,to October 31,2023.The second-level cluster included the same streets,with a clustering period from 2019 to 2020.CONCLUSION From 2019 to 2023,HFMD in Wenjiang District predominantly affected children aged 1～3 years and exhibited significant spatiotemporal clustering.High-incidence areas were mainly concentrated in Jinma,Yongquan,and Tianfu streets.Relevant authorities should enhance monitoring and screening in high-incidence areas and among high-risk populations,and develop differentiated,time-specific prevention and control strategies to effectively curb the spread and outbreak of HFMD.