J Korean Med Sci.  2006 Aug;21(4):614-620. 10.3346/jkms.2006.21.4.614.

Epidemiology of Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome in Endemic Area of the Republic of Korea, 1995-1998

• Song JY
• Chun BC
• Kim SD
• Baek LJ
• Kim SH
• Sohn JW
• Cheong HJ
• Kim WJ
• Park SC
• Kim MJ

• KMID: 2157810
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2006.21.4.614

Abstract

We conducted an epidemiologic study to understand temporal and spatial patterns of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in the Republic of Korea (ROK). We estimated the incidence among civilians in endemic areas through the active surveillance system during the major epidemic periods, from September to December, between 1996 and 1998. We also estimated the prevalence among Korean military personnel from 1995 to 1998. In addition, we assessed seroprevalence, subclinical infection rate, and vaccination rates in both civilians and military personnel. The incidence in civilians ranged from 2.1 to 6.6 per 100, 000 person-months. The annual prevalence in the military personnel was 40-64 per 100, 000 military populations, and remained generally constant throughout the study period with seasonal variation. This is the prospective epidemiologic data set on HFRS in the ROK since the inactivated Hantaan virus vaccine was licensed for use in the late 1990s. These results will be invaluable in establishing a national immunization program against HFRS.

Keyword

Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome; Hantaan virus; Epidemiology; Incidence; Prevalence; Korea

MeSH Terms

Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
Seroepidemiologic Studies
Seasons
Population Surveillance
Military Personnel
Korea
Incidence
Humans
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome/*epidemiology/prevention & control
Disease Outbreaks/*statistics & numerical data

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Study areas, Yeoncheon and Paju, which are located in the northernmost part of Gyeonggi province, Republic of Korea. ADL, armistice demarcation line (—); DMZ, demilitarized zone (---).

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  Fig. 2 Active surveillance system for HFRS established in endemic areas.

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  Fig. 3 Monthly distribution of HFRS cases among Korean military personnel (1995-1998).

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