Analysis of varicella epidemics among college students from 2012 to 2021

Abstract

Background:
Varicella (chickenpox) is a highly contagious disease that can cause significant outbreaks in dense populations such as college campuses. Understanding its epidemiological trends over time is important for effective prevention and control strategies.
Objective:
To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and trends of varicella epidemics among college students from 2012 to 2021.
Methods:
Data on reported varicella cases among college students were collected from [surveillance system/source] covering the years 2012–2021. Epidemiological indicators including annual incidence, seasonality, outbreak frequency and size, gender and age distribution were analyzed. Time-series analyses were performed to identify trends and patterns over the decade.
Results:
A total of [XXXX] varicella cases and [XX] outbreaks were reported among college students during the study period, with an average annual incidence of [X.X] per 10,000 students. The incidence showed a [declining/stable/increasing] trend over the years (p < 0.05). Most cases occurred in [season(s)], peaking in [month(s)]. Males accounted for [X%] of cases, and the majority of cases were aged [XX–XX] years. Outbreaks typically involved [X–X] individuals per event and lasted a median of [X] days. Vaccination coverage in the population increased from [X%] in 2012 to [X%] in 2021, which was associated with a reduction in outbreak size and frequency.
Conclusion:
Varicella remains a public health concern on college campuses, although the incidence and outbreak magnitude have [changed/decreased] over the past decade, likely due to increased vaccination. Strengthening vaccination programs and timely outbreak response are critical for further reducing the burden of varicella in this population.
Keywords:
varicella, chickenpox, outbreak, college students, epidemiology, vaccination