Epidemiological survey and clinical analysis of 1426 patients with hand, foot and mouth disease in Linyi

Abstract

Objective To investigate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of hand,foot and mouth diseases (HFMD) in Linyi area,which may provide insight for developing disease control therapy.Methods Make an observation table,then record and analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of HFMD in Linyi area.The data was then descriptively analyzed.Results The highest peak of HFMD incidence was detected at May.Most of the patients were children less than 3 years old and there was a tendency of HFMD in boys and children living in rural and suburban areas.Clinical symptoms mainly included fever and skin rash.Severe patients can also have various complications.Laboratory test usually showed elevated leukocyte count and neutrophil percentage.The major pathogens causing severe HFMD cases were enterovirus 71 (EV71),accounting for 77.21％ of all cases.Conclusion HFMD of Linyi area showed varied epidemiological characteristics at different seasons,areas and population.Developing control therapy according to the specific epidemiological and clinical characteristics is essential for the management of HFMD in Linyi area. Key words: Hand, foot and mouth disease; Epidemiology; Enterovirus; Coxsackievirus infections