Spatio-temporal patterns and landscape-associated risk of Buruli ulcer in Akonolinga, Cameroon.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Buruli ulcer (BU) is an extensively damaging skin infection caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, whose transmission mode is still unknown. The focal distribution of BU and the absence of interpersonal transmission suggest a major role of environmental factors, which remain unidentified. This study provides the first description of the spatio-temporal variations of BU in an endemic African region, in Akonolinga, Cameroon. We quantify landscape-associated risk of BU, and reveal local patterns of endemicity.

Methodology/principal findings

From January 2002 to May 2012, 787 new BU cases were recorded in 154 villages of the district of Akonolinga. Incidence per village ranged from 0 (n = 59 villages) to 10.4 cases/1000 person.years (py); median incidence was 0.4 cases/1,0

SUBMITTER: Landier J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4154661 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature