Spatio-temporal clusters of incident human brucellosis cases in Ecuador

This study aimed to determine whether variations in the incidence of reported cases of human brucellosis in Ecuador were clustered in space and time. In addition, the effects of cattle and small ruminant population density and other socio-economic factors on the incidence were investigated. Significant space–time clusters were found in the northern and southern highlands and parts of Ecuadorian Amazonia. Customs of people, cattle, goat and sheep population density appeared to influence the incidence of brucellosis. In this study, the incidence of reported cases of human brucellosis was found to be higher in the highlands (sierra) and in municipalities near Peru and Colombia. The results of this study highlight the need for prevention and control measures aimed at abating the incidence of brucellosis among livestock and humans.

► Human brucellosis cases are clustered in highlands (north/south) and the Ecuadorian Amazonia.
► The incidence of brucellosis is higher in the sierra and municipalities near Peru and Columbia.
► Number of cattle, sheep and goats significantly influenced the incidence of human brucellosis.
► Significant clusters of human brucellosis cases are correlated with cattle population density.