Epidemiological investigation of scarlet fever in Hefei City, China, from 2004 to 2008.

This study aims to explore the epidemiological characteristics of scarlet fever in Hefei City, China, and to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of the disease. A total of 731 cases were recruited from 2004 to 2008. The average incidence was 3.159 per 100,000 population. Our results indicated that the major risk factors for scarlet fever were: gender (male); age (3-6 years); time of disease onset (March to June); and area of residence (urban areas). Knowledge of these factors could help clinicians to provide the appropriate interventions for scarlet fever.