Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and spatial distribution of scrub typhus in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, so as to provide a theoretical basis for formulating scientific and effective prevention and control strategies and measures. Methods Based on the data on reported scrub typhus cases and population data from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention, the incidence and trend of scrub typhus were described in Xuzhou from 2013 to 2022 by using descriptive epidemiological methods; the peak season and time of scrub typhus were determined by using the concentration method and circular distribution method; the regional distribution of scrub typhus was visualized with the use of ArcGIS 10.3 software; and spatial autocorrelation analysis was conducted with the use of GeoDa 1.14 software. Results A total of 259 cases of scrub typhus were reported in Xuzhou from 2013 to 2022, with an average annual reported incidence rate of 0.30/100 000. By occupation, the patients were mainly farmers (230/259, 88.80%), followed by homemakers and the unemployed (8/259, 3.09%), and workers (6/259, 2.32%). By age, the reported cases were mainly concentrated in the age group of 40 to <80 years (225/259, 86.87%), most common in the age group of 60 to <70 years (80/259, 30.89%). Remarkable seasonality was observed in the incidence of scrub typhus, which was higher during October to November of each year (243/259, 93.82%). The circular distribution model suggested that November 2 was the peak day of the incidence of scrub typhus, with the peak period lasting from October 10 to November 25. The global autocorrelation Moran's I of the annual average incidence rate was >0 (P<0.05), and the local autocorrelation results indicated Pizhou as a "high-high" cluster area and Suining County as a "high-low" cluster area. Conclusions The incidence of scrub typhus shows stringent seasonality in Xuzhou, which is an autumn-type epidemic area. The reported incidence rate of scrub typhus shows an overall upward trend with age, and the reported incidence is mainly concentrated in three eastern areas of Xuzhou. It is necessary to timely carry out health education for key populations and vector control in key areas.
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