Analysis of Prevalent Trends of Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome in Changchun

Objective Our study was designed to analyze the prevalent trends, distribution, types and characteristics of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in 45 years in the city of Changchun. Methods Data on the morbidity, mortality, distribution, types and intensity of HFRS in 45 years in the city of Changchun were collected and analyzed. Results It was found that the city shifted from a low-incidence area of HFRS to a high-incidence one and the epidemic spread rapidly after 1998, which was evidenced by the fact that there were only several cases prior to 1998 but the number rose to 621 cases in 2004 with an incidence rate of 8.64/lakh. The scope of affected area was extended, presenting a trend of dispersing from the countryside to the city. Serological examinations demonstrated that the type of epidemic area changed from Apodemus agrarius to house rat and mixed area. Farmers aged from 15 to 60 years were more frequently affected, more often in males than in females. HFRS might occur all around the year but the peak incidence was seen in spring and autumn. The epidemic of HFRS in Changcun city took on an rising trend. Conclusion The epidemic of HFRS in Changchun city is of some new characteristics and the prevention and treatment of HFRS should be strengthened.