Category
JFL, Lower Atrium
Description
Objective: This study aims to explore the epidemiology of Tickborne Diseases (TBDs) in Central Virginia, focusing on identifying geographic and demographic risk factors and informing the development of culturally competent public health messaging to enhance prevention and intervention strategies. Methods: Data were obtained from the Virginia Electronic Disease Surveillance System (VEDSS) for the counties within the Central Virginia Health District (Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Campbell, and Lynchburg City), spanning from 2005 to August 2024. The analysis utilizes key variables such as MMWR Year, Case Status, Geographic Variables (county), and Demographic Variables (age, sex, ethnicity, and race) to assess specific tickborne diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS). Data are analyzed and visualized using Microsoft Excel, IBM SPSS v.29.0, RStudio, and ArcGIS Pro. Results: Attack and incidence rates of TBDs rose significantly from 2005–2019, peaking in 2015–2019, then declined sharply in 2020–2024. ANOVA analysis showed significant time-related differences (F = 8.274, p = 0.002), with notable changes between 2005–2009 and 2015–2019, and between 2015–2019 and 2020–2024. The R-squared value (0.608) indicates a strong model fit. Additionally, Appomattox County reported the highest AGS rate at 787.1 per 100,000, while Lynchburg City had the lowest at 514.8 per 100,000, highlighting geographic variations. Conclusion: The findings underline the dynamic nature of TBD trends, with temporal, geographic, and demographic disparities identified as key factors influencing disease incidence. This research highlights the importance of targeted interventions, enhanced surveillance, and a deeper understanding of environmental factors in reducing TBD risks.
Epidemiology of Tick-Borne Diseases in Central Virginia: Analyzing Geographic and Demographic Risk Factors to Inform Public Health Interventions, May 2005 – August 2024
JFL, Lower Atrium
Objective: This study aims to explore the epidemiology of Tickborne Diseases (TBDs) in Central Virginia, focusing on identifying geographic and demographic risk factors and informing the development of culturally competent public health messaging to enhance prevention and intervention strategies. Methods: Data were obtained from the Virginia Electronic Disease Surveillance System (VEDSS) for the counties within the Central Virginia Health District (Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Campbell, and Lynchburg City), spanning from 2005 to August 2024. The analysis utilizes key variables such as MMWR Year, Case Status, Geographic Variables (county), and Demographic Variables (age, sex, ethnicity, and race) to assess specific tickborne diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS). Data are analyzed and visualized using Microsoft Excel, IBM SPSS v.29.0, RStudio, and ArcGIS Pro. Results: Attack and incidence rates of TBDs rose significantly from 2005–2019, peaking in 2015–2019, then declined sharply in 2020–2024. ANOVA analysis showed significant time-related differences (F = 8.274, p = 0.002), with notable changes between 2005–2009 and 2015–2019, and between 2015–2019 and 2020–2024. The R-squared value (0.608) indicates a strong model fit. Additionally, Appomattox County reported the highest AGS rate at 787.1 per 100,000, while Lynchburg City had the lowest at 514.8 per 100,000, highlighting geographic variations. Conclusion: The findings underline the dynamic nature of TBD trends, with temporal, geographic, and demographic disparities identified as key factors influencing disease incidence. This research highlights the importance of targeted interventions, enhanced surveillance, and a deeper understanding of environmental factors in reducing TBD risks.
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Graduate