Epidemiology and Outcome of Necrotizing Fasciitis in Children: An Active Surveillance Study of the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program

In the prevaccine era, NF occurred most commonly in Canadian children under age 5 years, with a peak incidence in males under age 1 year. There is substantial associated morbidity and about 5% mortality. The data provide baseline incidence of disease and a surveillance mechanism for NF after the implementation of publicly funded varicella immunization programs in Canada.