Abstract:

Objective  To investigate the spatial-temporal characteristics and changing rules of schistosomiasis in Hunan Province from 2004 through 2011. Methods The endemic characteristics of schistosomiasis were analyzed in accordance with the spatial database on schistosomiasis distribution in Hunan Province between 2004 and 201 using software SPPSS(version 17.0) and ArcGIS(version 10.1). Results The mean level for schistosomiasis in Hunan Province was decreased from 3.1 in 2004 to 2.3 in 2011. Autocorrelation analysis indicated that the infection rate of schistosomiasis ranged from 0.28 to 0.44 bweteen 2004 and 2011 in township by Moran's I value, which was higher than the expected value (Z>7.15, P<0.05). Local G statistics indicated that the positive high-high clustering areas by hotspots from 2004 to 2011 were primarily associated with townships outside the embankment with snail prevalence in water areas, and the annual number of townships with endemic schistosomiasis in the clustering areas was between 19 and 33. Conclusion The endemic level of schistosomiasis was significantly decreased in Hunan Province from 2004 through 2011, though remained at comparatively higher level in 2011, and the endemicity demonstrated significant positive spatial correlation and agglomerations. Following tasks on prevention and control of the schistosomiasis in Hunan Province should be targeted in high-high clustering areas.

Key words: Schistosomiasis, Spatial-temporal distribution, Spatial Autocorrelation, Dongting Lake