Epidemiological characteristics and control measures of varicella in Guandu district, Kunming city, 2005-2008.

Objective To investigate the epidemic characteristics of varicella in Guandu district,Kunming city,and to provide scientific basis for control of varicella epidemic. Methods Data of 2 153 cases with varicella were collected and analyzed to reveal the epidemiological characteristics of varicella during 2005 and 2008. Results A toatl of 2 153 cases of varicella were confirmed in Guandu district during 2005 to 2008,with no death reported.The average annual incidence was 55.45/100 000 person-years.The cases occurred each month of the year,with two peaks in May to June(21.83%),November to December and January(36.04%).The disease was seen in all age groups.There were 1 932 cases aged below 14 years old,accounting for 89.74% of all the patients.The cases with varicella were mainly students,which accounted for 46.45% of the patients. Conclusion Comprehensive measures including epidemic surveillance,case investigation,health education,disinfection and isolation,as well as varicella vaccination should be adopted.