Sex, age, and seasonal distribution characteristics of bacterial and fungal infections

Abstract

Objective Studies on the common distribution characteristics of multiple bacterial and fungal infections across sex, age groups, and seasons remain scarce. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological distribution patterns of common bacteria and fungi in the above three dimensions. Methods Retrospectively collected bacterial and fungal testing data from a grade A tertiary general hospital between March 2016 and February 2022. A total of 51 microbial species with the highest detection frequency were enrolled, accounting for 97.35% of all positive samples. Their distribution differences in sex, age group, season, and Gram staining classification were analyzed. Results Among the 51 common bacteria and fungi, 40 exhibited significant sex-related differences, with 38 showing the highest proportion in males and only 2 in females (P < 0.001). 48 species had significant age-related differences, with no significant disparity in the number of pathogens peaked across different age groups. Seasonal distribution differences were significant in 32 species, of which 20 reached the peak prevalence in summer (P < 0.001). The proportion of Gram-positive bacteria affected by sex (15/22) and season (10/22) was significantly lower than that of Gram-negative bacteria (sex: 22/24, P = 0.045; season: 18/24, P = 0.022). Conclusion This study summarized the preference characteristics of the 51 most prevalent bacteria and fungi infection in terms of sex, age, and season. Compared with Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative infections were more susceptible to sex and seasonal temperature variations. Females showed stronger resistance to bacterial and fungal infections, suggesting inherent sex differences in immune function. Bacterial and fungal infections peaked predominantly in summer, highlighting the substantial influence of environmental factors on pathogen infection. These findings indicate that sex, age, and seasonal distribution features should be incorporated into the formulation of infection prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.