Effects of different levels of non-pharmaceutical interventions on hand, foot and mouth disease in Guangzhou, China

• DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14850-x
• Publication Date: 2022-12-20T18:02:44Z
• Authors: Keyi Wu; Xiaowei Ma; Huamin Liu; Jiazhen Zheng; Rui Zhou; Zelin Yuan; Zhiwei Huang; Qi Zhong; Yining Huang; Zhoubin Zhang; Xianbo Wu
• Keywords: Hand-foot-and-mouth disease; Biostatistics; Enterovirus 71; Sore throat; Social distance; Pandemic

Abstract Background Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) against coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19) may have suppressed the transmission of other infectious diseases. This study aimed to evaluate impact different degrees NPIs during COVID-19 pandemic on hand, foot and mouth (HFMD) in Guangzhou, China. Methods Weekly reported HFMD cases pathogens information 2015–2021 Guangzhou were collected from China National Notifiable Disease Reporting System. The observed number 2020 2021 was compared average level same period 2015–2019. Then, an interrupted time-series segmented regression analysis applied estimate HFMD, such as social distancing, suspension schools, community management mask wearing. effects across subgroups stratified by gender, children groups enterovirus subtype also examined. Results A total 13,224 36,353 2021, which decreased 80.80% 15.06% respectively with significant drop time when strict (relative change: 69.07% [95% confidence interval (CI): 68.84%–69.30%]). incidence rebounded historical levels lockdown eased. slightest reduction found among at kindergartens or childcare centres three (children centres: 55.50% CI: 54.96%–56.03%]; living home: 72.64% 72.38%–72.89%]; others: 74.06% 73.19%–74.91%]). Conclusions strong epidemic a beneficial effect mitigating HFMD. However, became less stringent. Authorities should consider applying these outbreaks strengthening personal hygiene routine prevention.