Epidemiology of coccidioidomycosis among children in California, 2000-2016

Gail L Sondermeyer Cooksey1, Seema Jain1, Duc J Vugia1

  • 1Infectious Diseases Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California.

Medical Mycology
|January 29, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Coccidioidomycosis incidence rose significantly in California children and adults from 2000-2016. Pediatric cases increased, particularly in adolescents, with higher rates in males after puberty.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection, poses a significant public health concern in endemic regions.
  • Understanding incidence trends is crucial for public health interventions and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze population-based incidence trends of coccidioidomycosis in California from 2000 to 2016.
  • To compare incidence rates between pediatric and adult populations.
  • To investigate demographic factors influencing coccidioidomycosis incidence.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized California statewide surveillance data from 2000-2016.
  • Calculated annual incidence rates per 100,000 population for children (≤17 years) and adults (≥18 years).
  • Analyzed incidence by age group, sex, and county of residence.

Main Results:

  • Overall coccidioidomycosis incidence increased in both children and adults during the study period.
  • Annual pediatric incidence rose from 0.8 to 5.2 per 100,000, while adult incidence increased from 3.2 to 16.2 per 100,000.
  • Adolescents (12-17 years) and residents of endemic counties showed higher pediatric incidence. Male incidence surpassed female incidence during adolescence and continued into older age.

Conclusions:

  • Coccidioidomycosis incidence has markedly increased in California, affecting both pediatric and adult populations.
  • Specific demographic groups, including adolescents and males, are disproportionately affected.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the reasons behind the sex-based disparities in incidence, particularly post-adolescence.

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