Geographic analysis of pertussis infection in an urban area: a tool for health services planning. |
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| Authors: | C Siegel A Davidson K Kafadar J M Norris J Todd J Steiner |
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| Affiliation: | University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, USA. |
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| Abstract: | OBJECTIVE: This study examined whether incident cases of pertussis cluster in urban census tracts and identified community characteristics that predict high-incidence areas. METHODS: An ecological study design was used. The study population included all persons diagnosed with pertussis from January 1, 1986, through December 31, 1994. Maps of rates were constructed via a geographic information system and clustering was statistically confirmed. Associations between pertussis rates and community characteristics were tested. RESULTS: Mapping and statistical analysis revealed spatial clustering of pertussis. Higher age-adjusted rates of pertussis infection were associated with higher proportions of residents below poverty level. CONCLUSIONS: In urban areas pertussis infection clusters in areas of poverty. |
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