Epidemiological Analysis of Acute Intestinal Infections in Azerbaijan (2000-2024)

Saida Valizada^1* , Zahra Bayramli²

Abstract. Background. Acute intestinal infections (AII) remain a significant public health concern worldwide, especially in developing countries. This study aims to analyze the epidemiological trends of reported AII cases in Azerbaijan between 2000 and 2024. Methods. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using national surveillance data on AII cases from the Ministry of Health of Azerbaijan. Incidence rates per 100,000 population were calculated for each year across four time intervals: 2000–2010, 2011–2015, 2016–2020, and 2021–2024. Results. The incidence of AII in Azerbaijan demonstrated fluctuations over the studied years. The highest rates were observed between 2000 and 2005, followed by a gradual decline until 2015. However, a moderate resurgence was noted during the 2021–2024 period. Factors contributing to these trends may include seasonal variations, food safety practices, access to clean water, and improvements in disease surveillance systems. Conclusion. Although overall AII incidence in Azerbaijan has decreased compared to early 2000s, periodic increases underline the need for continuous monitoring, strengthened hygiene policies, and targeted public health interventions to mitigate future outbreaks.

Keywords: Acute intestinal infections, epidemiology, Azerbaijan, public health, disease trends, incidence rate