Epidemiological investigation of Measles in Bozhou City, China, from 2005 to 2015

Background: Measles is one of the most highly contagious diseases which have not been eliminated in China. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of measles in Bozhou city, China between 2005 and 2015 and provide scientific basis for the prevention, control and elimination of measles. Methods: Cases of measles derived from the China Information System for Disease Prevention and Control, and demographic data were obtained from the Public Security Bureau of Bozhou city. Results: Among the 2934 cases, the average annual incidence of measles was 45.934 (per 1,000,000 persons) and no death occurred. The incidence of males was higher than females (Z = 10.794, p<0.05). Scattered children accounted for 63.2% (1854/2934) in occupation distributing. In terms of immunization history of cases, 57.5% had 0 doses, 15.0% had one dose, 7.5% had two doses and others were uncertain. Conclusions: Our study has investigated the epidemiological characteristics of measles in Bozhou City. To eventually eliminate measles in Bozhou city, improving measles vaccination coverage and quality of routine immunization services were important.