Tracking sickness through social networks - the practical use of social network mapping in supporting the management of an E. coli O157 outbreak in a primary school in London.
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Volume
141
Pagination
2022 - 2030
Publisher
DOI
10.1017/S0950268813000344
Journal
Epidemiology and Infection
Issue
Metadata
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This paper describes the practical use of social network diagrams in the management of an outbreak of Escherichia coli O157 (VTEC) in a primary school in London. The diagrams were created during the outbreak to establish the extent and nature of person-to-person transmission in the cases and their contacts. The diagrams supported a tailored public health action, and hence aided in the control of the outbreak. We conclude that for selected infectious diseases, social network diagrams can provide a valuable tool in the management of an outbreak.