Epidemiology of scrub typhus in Matsu Peikang Island

A retrospective survey of the epidemiology of scrub typhus in 1990 in Matsu Peikang Island was made at the end of December of 1990. The diagnosis of scrub typhus was based on the presence of escar, typical clinical manifestation and good response to tetracycline treatment. There were 89 cases of scrub typhus studied, and except for one civilian, the other 88 cases were military personnel, occurring in 2.2% of the total military personnel on the island. However it occurred in 0.08% of the civilian population. Seasonal distribution of scrub typhus was limited to between June and October of 1990. The peak incidence occurred in July. Scrub typhus was distributed over the whole island. A higher incidence of scrub typhus occurred in soldiers and sergeants than in officers. A significant different incidence was found in different units. No fatalities were reported. Different units. No fatalities were reported. Different military activities, duties and the location of the military unit may affect the incidence of scrub typhus. The scrub typhus epidemic was also related to temperature.