Epidemiological investigation and geographical modeling of hepatitis A outbreak in the south of Kerman during the years 2012 to 2022

Hushmandi, Kiavash; Nikvarz, Mehran; Vazirinasab, Habibe; Shadkam Farrokhi, Shima; Khazaee-Nasirabadi, Mohammad Hossein; Mohammadrezakhani, Fateme; Mashayekhimazar, Vahid; Daneshi, Salman

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Volume 29, Issue 4 (Bimonthly 2025)

Feyz Med Sci J 2025, 29(4): 386-396

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Epidemiological investigation and geographical modeling of hepatitis A outbreak in the south of Kerman during the years 2012 to 2022

Kiavash Hushmandi

, Mehran Nikvarz

, Habibe Vazirinasab

, Shima Shadkam Farrokhi

, Mohammad Hossein Khazaee-Nasirabadi

, Fateme Mohammadrezakhani

, Vahid Mashayekhimazar

, Salman Daneshi ^*

, salmandaneshi008@gmail.com

Abstract: (392 Views)

Introduction
Hepatitis A virus pose major health challenges globally, particularly in developing regions. These virus is primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated water sources. Hepatitis A is prevalent among children. This study focuses on the epidemiological trends of this infection in southern Kerman province.
Method
A Cross-sectional study was conducted on 573 cases of Hepatitis A reported between 2012 and 2022. Data were collected from health facilities across various counties in southern Kerman. Demographic information, clinical sign, vaccination history, and sources of infection were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to determine incidence rates and identify risk factors associated with the outbreaks.
Result
The findings revealed that the majority of cases occurred in children aged 2 to 6 years (60%), with a notable incidence in rural areas (71%). The highest number of cases was reported in Manujan County (33.9%). Seasonal trends indicated increased cases during the warmer months, particularly May and June. Most patients (99.7%) recovered fully.
Conclusion
The results highlight that children are particularly vulnerable to Hepatitis A infections due to their underdeveloped immune systems and potential exposure to unsanitary conditions. The data aligns with previous studies indicating that socio-economic disparities contribute to higher infection rates in rural populations. The lack of significant gender differences in infection rates suggests that environmental factors play a more critical role than biological ones. Public health interventions should focus on improving sanitation, increasing vaccination coverage, and providing education about hygiene practices to mitigate the risks associated with these viral infections.

Keywords: Hepatitis A, Epidemiology, Public health, geographical modeling

Type of Study: Research | Subject: medicine, paraclinic
Received: 2025/05/14 | Revised: 2025/09/29 | Accepted: 2025/08/5 | Published: 2025/09/29

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Hushmandi K, Nikvarz M, Vazirinasab H, Shadkam Farrokhi S, Khazaee-Nasirabadi M H, Mohammadrezakhani F, et al . Epidemiological investigation and geographical modeling of hepatitis A outbreak in the south of Kerman during the years 2012 to 2022. Feyz Med Sci J 2025; 29 (4) :386-396
URL: http://feyz.kaums.ac.ir/article-1-5342-en.html

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