Human Brucellosis in Iraq: Spatiotemporal Data Analysis From 2007-2018

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Spatial Analysis

Background:

• Brucellosis is endemic in Iraq, causing significant human morbidity and economic losses.
• Previous studies have not investigated the spatial and temporal patterns of brucellosis in Iraq.
• Understanding disease distribution is crucial for effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of human brucellosis in Iraq from 2007 to 2018.
• To identify any changes or clustering patterns in disease incidence over time.
• To inform public health interventions and resource allocation.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, cross-sectional study utilizing secondary surveillance data from 2007-2018.
• Analysis of human brucellosis case trends by sex and age group.
• Application of local Getis-Ord Gi* statistics for spatial clustering detection.

Main Results:

• A total of 51,508 human brucellosis cases were reported during the 12-year study period.
• Brucellosis occurred annually with no specific temporal clustering.
• Significant spatial clustering of cases was predominantly observed in northern Iraq.

Conclusions:

• Geographic distribution of brucellosis varied significantly, with highest incidence in northern and northeastern Iraq.
• Factors such as proximity to borders and consumption of local dairy products may contribute to higher case numbers.
• Public health planning should incorporate identified spatial and seasonal patterns for targeted prevention and control efforts.