Epidemiology of herpes zoster in the State of Qatar, 2012–2017

الملخص EN

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the epidemiological features of herpes zoster (HZ) in Qatar.

Methods: This study was a retrospective review of all reported HZ cases received by the surveillance unit at the Ministry of Public Health, between January 2012 and December 2017.

Results: A total of 2815 cases were reported during the study period.

The mean incidence of HZ was estimated to be 19/100,000 population, which increased from 9.8/100,000 in 2012 to 36.2/100,000 in 2017.

The ratio of male/female was about 4:1.

HZ incidence overall was found to be highest in those aged $50 years.

According to nationality, the mean incidence of HZ was estimated to be 79/100,000 among Qataris and 101/100,000 among expatriates.

Additionally, more HZ cases were notified during the hot months.

Conclusion: Such epidemiological data will contribute to the baseline information, which is necessary for effective preventive and control measures to be implemented in the country.