Epidemiological characteristics of school public health emergency in Guangzhou,2006-2012

Objective To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of school public health emergencies in Guangzhou,and to provide evidence for the prevention and control strategies. Methods School public health emergencies from webbased report system during 2006-2012 in Guangzhou were analyzed. Results During 2006-2012,a total of 461 public health emergencies and 17 996 cases were reported. The attack rate in affected population was 2. 92%. Communicable diseases including varicella,influenza and hand-foot-mouth disease,accounted for 83. 51% of emergencies. Most of emergencies took place in March,April,June,September and December and in elementary education stage in Yuexiu,Tianhe,Huangpu,Panyu districts. The annual incidence rate of public health emergencies was highest in college students( 10. 35%). Conclusion Primary education institutions should be aware of public health emergency. It is necessary to stay focused on infectious disease in school health agenda.