Surveillance and Epidemiological Characteristics of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) Infection in the Republic of Korea

초록

This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) infections in Republic of Korea from 2019 to 2024 based on surveillance and epidemiological investigation data, providing a scientific basis for establishing effective prevention and control strategies. We analyzed the incidence trends, age distribution, geographic regions, dietary risk factors, complications, and serotypes of EHEC infections. The study compared data from 2024 with the average of the previous five years (2019-2023), utilizing case reports and epidemiological investigation forms of 1,282 patients reported to the Integrated Disease Control System between 2019 and 2024. In 2024, 274 cases were reported, representing a 35.9% increase compared to the average of the previous five years. While outbreaks typically concentrated between June and August, the 2024 occurrence period extended through October. Incidence was primarily concentrated in children under 10 years (42.3%) and adults aged 70 and older (17.9%). Notably, among those who consumed beef, the proportion of raw beef consumption increased approximately 3.5-fold compared to the previous five-year average. Furthermore, a shift toward sporadic, individual cases rather than large-scale clusters was clearly observed. To ensure effective management of EHEC infections, it is crucial to strengthen public awareness regarding thorough cooking and personal hygiene. Furthermore, to identify the infection sources of sporadic cases, a surveillance and investigation system based on whole-genome sequencing should be implemented to pinpoint common risk factors. Copyright © Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

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