Analysis on epidemic characteristics of viral hepatitis in Cixi city,1991-2005

Objective To explore the epidemic characteristics of viral hepatitis in Cixi city from 1991 to 2005,and to provide scientific basis for prevention and control of the disease. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was adopted to analyze the data of patients with viral hepatitis from 1991 to 2005. Results A total of 13 588 cases of viral hepatitis were reported in the city of Cixi during 1991-2005,with an average annual incidence rate of 84.26/100 000.Of 13 588 cases,7 140(52.55%)were identified for hepatitis A,B,C or D.The incidence rate had showed an decreasing trend for the period.The ratio of males to females was 2.31∶1.Young and middle-aged adults of 20-59 years old were in high-risk group (80.51%),and the cases were mainly from farmers(55.10%). Conclusion Viral hepatitis occupied a high proportion of infectious diseases in Cixi.Education of knowledge of viral hepatitis prevention and control,and improvement of the coverage of hepatitis A and B vaccination would be critical in decreasing the incidence rate of viral hepatitis effectively.