ABSTRACT
Objective: To determine the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in Shaanxi Province. Methods: Epidemiological analysis was conducted on the confirmed cases of COVID-19 (n=245) from January 23rd, 2020 through February 21st, 2020 based on the official data announced by Shaanxi Province. The effects of local population migration, prevention and control measures on the epidemic were explored. Results: As of February 21st, 2020, a total of 245 COVID-19 cases had been notified in Shaanxi Province, with a cumulative incidence rate of 0.63 per 100 000, of which imported cases accounted for 47.34%. The high incidence was observed between January 31st and February 5th. Xi'an had the largest number of COVID-19 cases, followed by Ankang, Hanzhong and Xianyang, totally accounting for 81.20% of the cases in the province. In terms of social factors, daily morbidity was positively correlated with Baidu migration scale index 14 days before. On January 25th, the provincial health emergency response was launched, and on January 31st, it was further upgraded for quarantine. On February 20th, the provincial prevention and control system was implemented by classified areas. There were no emerging local cases after February 21st and no confirmed cases for 28th consecutive days as of March 19th. Local cases and close contacts were cleared to zero on March 27th. Conclusion: The COVID-19 epidemic in Shaanxi Province is mainly concentrated in Guanzhong area and southern Shaanxi, with a widespread pattern in all cities. The prevention and control measures have effectively contained the epidemic, with a declining incidence. However, quarantine of suspected cases and close contacts remains crucial for routine prevention and control strategy.