Spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and disease burden of human brucellosis in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, 2014–2023

Abstract

Background This study aimed to characterize the spatiotemporal dynamics and disease burden of human brucellosis in Inner Mongolia from 2014 to 2023, providing a robust scientific foundation for tailored prevention and control strategies. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis and Joinpoint regression models were employed to evaluate the temporal trends and multidimensional distribution of the epidemic. Spatial autocorrelation and spatiotemporal scan statistics were utilized to identify spatiotemporal clusters at the county level. Furthermore, the disease burden was quantified using years lived with disability (YLDs) and estimated indirect economic losses. Results The overall incidence of brucellosis in Inner Mongolia exhibited a significant upward trend from 2014 to 2023 (AAPC = 10.42%, p < 0.001). Joinpoint analysis identified a pivotal inflection point: incidence rates declined between 2014 and 2016, followed by a sharp resurgence from 2016 to 2023 (APC = 19.75%, p < 0.05). Regional disparities were substantial. Eastern leagues exhibited marked epidemiological heterogeneity, whereas western leagues experienced considerable increases in incidence, with the exception of Alxa League. Male farmers and herdsmen constituted the most vulnerable population affected by the epidemic. Significant spatiotemporal clustering and a pronounced seasonal peak in spring–summer (March–July) were identified, coinciding with the regional livestock breeding season. High-incidence clusters were predominantly distributed across central and eastern traditional pastoral regions, with core epidemic clusters persisting for approximately five consecutive years. Over the decade, the cumulative disease burden reached 4,033.61 person-years in YLDs, resulting in an estimated CNY 204.88 million (approximately USD 28.95 million) in indirect economic losses. This burden exhibited marked disparities across time, geography, and age groups. Conclusion Brucellosis prevention and control in Inner Mongolia should prioritize regions with moderate economic development. Veterinary and public health facilities should be strengthened to adapt to the ongoing transformation of animal husbandry. Targeted efforts should focus on expanding livestock vaccination coverage and optimizing protection protocols for occupationally exposed populations. Implementation of interventions in advance of the spring and summer epidemic peaks is vital to effectively contain disease transmission.