Objective To analyze scarlet fever surveillance data in Harbin City from 2010 to 2024, to preliminarily understand its incidence level and epidemiological characteristics, and to provide a scientific basis for the further formulation of effective prevention and control strategies.

Methods Scarlet fever surveillance data for Harbin City from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2024 were collected through the China Disease Prevention and Control Information System. Descriptive epidemiological analyses were conducted using incidence rates and constituent ratios.

Results From 2010 to 2024, a total of 11 052 scarlet fever cases were reported in Harbin City, during the 15-year period, with an average annual reported incidence of 7.65/100 000. The overall annual incidence rate showed a fluctuating downward trend, with epidemic peaks occurring from April to July each year and from November to January of the following year. The age group of 0 to 9 years had the highest incidence rate at 6.47/100 000. The majority of cases were students (4 707 cases, 42.59%), children in nurseries and kindergartens (3 289 cases, 29.76%) and scattered children (2 941 cases, 26.61%), together accounting for 98.96% of all cases. The incidence ratio of male to female was 1.53∶1. The average annual incidence rate was 9.23/100 000 for males and 6.07/100 000 for females. Over the 15-year period, all 18 districts (counties) in Harbin City had reported cases. The top five areas with the highest average annual reported incidence of scarlet fever were Acheng District (14.45/100 000), Xiangfang District (12.73/100 000), Pingfang District (12.10/100 000), Bin County (10.29/100 000) and Daowai District (10.08/100 000).

Conclusion From 2010 to 2024, the overall incidence of scarlet fever in Harbin City presented a downward trend. The disease prevailed mainly in spring-summer and autumn-winter, rather than year-round, with cases concentrated in densely populated districts and counties. Children and adolescents constituted the major affected population. The incidence was slightly higher in males, and school-age children accounted for a larger proportion than other age groups. Comprehensive preventive measures should focus on health education in key endemic areas, strengthen targeted protection for high-risk groups, and enhance epidemic surveillance and early warning.