Epidemiological analysis and control strategy of anthrax in Shaanxi Province

Objective To grasp the epidemic situation and risk factors of anthrax, so as to explore countermeasures in Shaanxi Province according to the epidemic characteristics of anthrax. Methods The data of anthrax epidemic were collected from 1955 to 2015, and the descriptive statistic method was used to analyze the distribution of anthrax. The outbreak and laboratory data were also comprehensively evaluated. Results A total of 3 849 cases of anthrax were reported in Shaanxi Province from 1955 to 2015, with the average incidence of 0.21/100 000, the mortality rate was 3.14%. The areas at high risk were concentrated in the prefectures (cities) of Weinan, Xianyang and other regions. The majority cases occurred in the period of July to September each year and the cases were mainly male youth. There was a lack of laboratory data. Conclusions Although Shaanxi Province was in low-prevalence areas of anthrax in China, the outbreak risk was still a continuous threat in Shaanxi Province, especially in rural regions. Therefore, to reduce the risk factors of anthrax incidence, we should emphasize the effect in the aspects of communicating with animal husbandry and veterinary inspection organisms, surveillance system, anthrax treatments, public health education, the results would provide scientific evidence for anthrax control in Shaanxi province.