Abstract: Objective To understand the incidence and epidemic characteristics of paragonimiasis in Luoyang area for evidence in prevention and control of this prevalence. Methods The clinical data were collected from the records of patients with paragonimiasis diagnosed in local Renhe Outpatient Clinic( a clinic for fever of unknown origin) and records maintained in the Information System for National Health Insurance and Disease Control of Luoyang City from 2003 to 2019,and then statistically analyzed pertinent to the distribution of endemic foci,time of treatment or onset,clinical characteristics and demographic characteristics. Results Totally,61 cases(37 males and 24 females) of paragonimiasis were annually reported in Luoyang from 2003 to 2019. The incidence was the most in 2011,with 16 cases reported. Luanchuan County had the largest number of cases(15 cases),followed Luoning County(13 cases),Songxian County(10 cases) and Yiyang County(6 cases),which accounted for 72. 13% of the total cases,and children under 10 years were most affected(55. 74%). 95. 08% of the patients had history of intake of uncooked or half-cooked creek crabs,drink of raw steam water or exposure to creek crabs before infection. Fever was seen in 63. 93% of the patients in the first clinic visit,and other symptoms were associated with cough,expectoration,mass at the abdominal and axillary region and others. Conclusion Prevalence of paragonimiasis is sporadic in population in Luoyang City. Nevertheless,it is necessary to strengthen the publicity and education in key population and key areas,as well as improve the diagnosis and treatment level and awareness of professionals in local institutions.

Key words: Paragonimiasis, Epidemic characteristics, Luoyang City