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Cat-scratch disease--Connecticut, 1992-1993
D H Hamilton1, K M Zangwill, J L Hadler
1Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Cat-scratch disease (CSD) surveillance in Connecticut revealed an average annual incidence of 3.7/100,000. While CSD affects younger individuals most, its age range is broader than previously thought.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health Surveillance
Background:
- Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is an infectious illness typically transmitted by cats.
- Understanding CSD epidemiology is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the epidemiology of cat-scratch disease (CSD) in Connecticut.
- To determine the incidence and demographic distribution of CSD cases.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, population-based surveillance system was implemented.
- Data were collected from residents reported with suspected CSD to the state health department.
- Case definition criteria were applied to reported individuals.
Main Results:
- 246 CSD cases were identified during 1992-1993, yielding an annual incidence of 3.7/100,000.
- The median patient age was 14 years, with the highest attack rate in those under 10.
- 74% of patients experienced symptoms beyond adenopathy; 11% were hospitalized, with no reported deaths.
Conclusions:
- CSD incidence in Connecticut was characterized, with a notable rate in younger populations.
- The study highlights a wider age spectrum for CSD than commonly recognized.
- Most clinically diagnosed CSD cases showed an immune response to Bartonella species.