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Distribution of Epi Info software: an evaluation using the Internet
1Division of Public Health Surveillance and Informatics, Epidemiology Program Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|September 24, 1999
Summary
Epi Info and Epi Map, public health software, have been distributed widely since 1987. The internet has become the primary distribution channel since 1994, accounting for 66% of known copies.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Informatics
- Epidemiological Software Distribution
Background:
- Epi Info and Epi Map are public domain software packages.
- These programs support word processing, database management, epidemiologic statistics, and mapping.
- They are designed for public health professionals and were historically distributed through informal channels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution channels of Epi Info and Epi Map software.
- To identify the evolution of distribution methods over time.
Main Methods:
- Information was gathered from known distributors of Epi Info and Epi Map since 1987.
- Distributors included governmental organizations (CDC, WHO), commercial vendors, academic institutions, and public health professionals.
- A minimum of 145,320 copies distributed were documented.
Main Results:
- The internet emerged as a significant distribution method starting in 1994.
- Internet distribution accounted for 66% of copies where the distribution method was known.
- The internet also served as a key information source for the study.
Conclusions:
- The internet has become the predominant channel for distributing public health software like Epi Info and Epi Map.
- This shift highlights the increasing importance of digital platforms in public health resource dissemination.