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Mediterranean spotted fever in Spain, 1997-2014: Epidemiological situation based on hospitalization records

Zaida Herrador1,2, Amalia Fernandez-Martinez1,2, Diana Gomez-Barroso3,4

  • 1National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Health Institute Carlos III (ISCIII in Spanish), Madrid, Spain.

Plos One
|March 30, 2017
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) hospitalizations in Spain decreased significantly from 1997-2014. Despite the decline, MSF remains a public health concern requiring improved surveillance due to its severity and economic impact.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia conorii.
  • Official reporting of MSF in Spain is deficient, leading to misreporting.
  • Understanding the clinical and spatio-temporal patterns of MSF hospitalizations is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical characteristics of MSF hospitalizations in Spain between 1997 and 2014.
  • To analyze the temporal and spatial distribution of MSF cases.
  • To assess trends in MSF hospitalization rates.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective descriptive study utilizing the Hospitalization Minimum Data Set (CMBD).
  • Analysis of hospital discharges with ICD-9 CM code 082.1.
  • Calculation of hospitalization rates and description of clinical characteristics, spatial distribution, and temporal behavior.

Main Results:

  • A total of 4,735 MSF hospitalizations were recorded; 62.2% were male, with a mean age of 48.
  • Comorbidities included diabetes mellitus (10.8%), alcohol dependence (2.4%), and chronic liver disease (2.8%).
  • Annual hospitalization rates decreased from 12.9 in 1997 to 3.1 in 2014, with most admissions in summer and significant regional variations.

Conclusions:

  • MSF hospitalization rates have significantly decreased but persist as a public health issue.
  • The severity and economic impact of MSF necessitate enhanced oversight and surveillance.
  • Improved reporting and monitoring are essential for managing MSF effectively.

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