Temporal tendencies and spatial patterns of human sporotrichosis in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, 2007 to 2023

Cat-transmitted sporotrichosis is one of the fastest spreading zoonosis in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. A retrospective study was conducted with analysis of incidence of human sporotrichosis complemented with spatial methodologies. Data from case reported to the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) from 2007 to 2023 were studied. Incidence, demographic variables, temporal, and spatial dynamics of this endemic disease were investigated. During 2007-2023, 15,401 cases of sporotrichosis were reported. Most cases (64.4%) occurred with women. The annual incidence from 2007 to 2023 was 5.6 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The incidence in 2016-2023 was 2.3 times higher than in 2007-2015. No significant differences were found regarding age between the two periods, but there were differences regarding gender: with a higher proportion of women in 2007-2015. The endemic is heterogenous with variations in time and space. Spatial analysis showed statistically significant clusters spread throughout Rio de Janeiro, in the periods of low incidence (2007-2015) and high incidence (2016-2023). In the period of high incidence, clusters were more numerous and had a greater range. In conclusion, the incidence levels and the proportion of affected territories increased over time. This study may contribute to understanding the dynamics of the endemic disease in the Rio de Janeiro State and guide control actions in places where they are most needed.