Visceral Leishmaniasis in Muzaffarpur District, Bihar, India from 1990 to 2008
Author Information
Author(s): Malaviya Paritosh, Picado Albert, Singh Shri Prakash, Hasker Epco, Singh Rudra Pratap, Boelaert Marleen, Sundar Shyam
Primary Institution: Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
Hypothesis
To understand the VL seasonality, annual and monthly variations of VL incidence and its relationship to meteorological variables.
Conclusion
The study found that monthly VL incidence was positively associated with rainfall and negatively associated with relative humidity.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 68,358 VL cases were reported in Muzaffarpur district from 1990 to 2008.
- Monthly averages of cases ranged from 149 to 309, with peaks in March-April and July.
- VL incidence was associated positively to rainfall and negatively to relative humidity.
Takeaway
This study looked at how the number of sick people with a disease called VL changed over time and how weather affected it.
Methodology
The study analyzed VL cases reported at health centers and hospitals, using a negative binomial regression model to evaluate associations with meteorological variables.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of underreporting and potential bias in the data collected from different health facilities.
Limitations
The study relied on reported cases from public health facilities and NGOs, which may underestimate the actual burden of VL.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on cases reported in Muzaffarpur district, Bihar, India.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 22.6–23.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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