Characteristics and Outcome of 69 Cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Lu’an City, China Between January and February 2020

BACKGROUND: This population study aimed to investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics and outcome of cases of coronavirus disease 2019 in Lu’an City, China between January 22, 2020 and February 18, 2020 identified from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention (CISDCP). MATERIAL/METHODS: Laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in the CISDCP were included in this study. The distribution of cases, exposure history, clustered epidemic situation, and clinical manifestations, disease severity, and key time nodes were analyzed. Once the throat swab or sputum sample was positive for SARS-CoV-2 by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction testing as confirmed cases. RESULTS: There were 69 cases of COVID-19 that were confirmed between January 22 and February 18, 2020 reported. The onset time was concentrated on January 25, 2020 solstice to February 6, 2020 (71.0%), and the reporting dates were concentrated on January 31, 2020 and February 9, 2020 (69.6%). Nineteen cases (27.5%) had a history of sojourn in Hubei Province, and none of the cases reported after February 6, 2020 had a history of exposure in Hubei Province. There were 14 cluster outbreaks, and human-to-human transmission was the most common (78.6%). The most common symptoms were fever (56.5%), cough (37.7%), and self-conscious discomfort (14.5%). Besides, there were 9 severe cases (13.0%). CONCLUSIONS: The epidemic prevention and control in Lu’an City has achieved phased results. Yet, new strict control measures need to be implemented to prevent a further outbreak, especially for those who will return to Lu’an City.