Pathogenic characteristics of enterovirus infection in Yueqing city from 2010 to 2018

Objective To analyze the epidemic characteristics of enterovirus infection in Yueqing city from 2010 to 2018, and to provide reference for the prevention and control of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) caused by enterovirus. Methods Clinical data of HFMD cases caused by enterovirus infection during 2010 to 2018 were derived from the disease monitoring information report management system of Yueqing city. Descriptive epidemiological study was performed to analyze the characteristics of enterovirus infection by season, age, gender and region and the features of pathogens. Results There were 53 178 patients with HFMD in total, including 75 severe cases and six deaths. Enterovirus infection occurred in every month of the years and peaked from April to July. Most of the cases were scattered children and nursery children under five years old and the incidence was higher in males than in females. From 2010 to 2018, the characteristics of enterovirus in Yueqing city had changed significantly. Enterovirus 71 (EV71) was the predominant pathogen during 2010 to 2014, but its detection rate had gradually decreased since 2013. In recent years, the incidence of HFMD caused by non-EV71 and non-coxsackievirus A16 (non-CVA16) enteroviruses significantly increased. Conclusions Enterovirus infection in Yueqing city was featured by significant seasonality and population-specific variation. Etiological detection should be strengthened. Comprehensive prevention and control measures should be taken to prevent the outbreak of HFMD during April to July. Key words: Enterovirus; Epidemiology; Hand, foot and mouth disease; Child