Spatio-temporal analysis of human brucellosis distribution in Neyshabur, Iran from 2015 to 2022, a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Human brucellosis is a global endemic disease and a significant public health concern. This cross-sectional study aims to explore the characteristics of human brucellosis, as well as its spatial and temporal clustering. Methods This cross-sectional study analyzed the population infected with human brucellosis in Neyshabur, Iran from 2015 to 2022. Data were obtained from the Neyshabur health center. Spatial analysis was conducted using Anselin Local Moran’s I and Global Moran’s I with ArcGIS 10.8.2. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 26. Results During the study period, a total of 4568 brucellosis patients were reported. The incidence of disease was higher in men with 55.37%. The majority of patients belonged to the 30 to 39-year-old age group. Temporal clustering analysis revealed a peak incidence between March and June. The highest incidence rates were observed in spring and summer, with 34.76% and 33.84% of cases, respectively. Spatial clustering analysis indicated a higher prevalence in the southern and southeast districts of Neyshabur. The results of Global Moran’s I analysis indicated that the distribution of brucellosis was not clustered in Neyshabur (P-value > 0.05). Conclusion The findings of this study highlight the importance of educational programs for mothers and animal vaccination strategies, particularly in the months leading up to the peak brucellosis season in high-incidence areas. Further research is needed to assess the coverage of livestock vaccination and its impact on human brucellosis rates.