Outbreak Investigation Research Paper

Words: 549
Pages: 3

Outbreak’s Investigations What is an outbreak? An outbreak happens when a particular disease has an enormous impact on an area that did not have a prior history of the disease. According to the World Health Organization (n.d.), an outbreak happens when cases of diseases occur in an overabundance of, what is considered normal for a particular community, geographical location or season. An outbreak can encompass a period of a few days, weeks, months or years. An outbreak may be an epidemic or pandemic, and it can be infectious or non-infectious. An epidemic outbreak usually takes place in a particular community during a given time period. A pandemic outbreak is not limited to a particular community; it can encompass the entire world. …show more content…
The investigation can help find the source of the disease and provide ways to prevent future outbreaks. It fosters collaboration between epidemiologic and clinical-based practice, with a focus on keeping the community safe. The process can present an opportunity to learn about new diseases and allow for the collection of additional information, about old or re-occurrence diseases. Investigations can foster an environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. It can discover crucial information that may be beneficial in re-evaluating current preventive measures. Outbreak investigations are an essential element of epidemiology and public health with the focus on containing the outbreak and preventing additional cases (CDC, 2010). According to Outbreak Investigations (n.d.), the following steps are required for and outbreak investigation:
1. Prepare for the Investigation and determine the make-up of the