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Related Experiment Videos

When is an epidemic an epidemic?

Manfred S Green1, Tiberio Swartz, Elana Mayshar

  • 1Israel Center for Disease Control, Ministry of Health, Tel Hashomer, Israel. m.green@trendline.co.il

The Israel Medical Association Journal : IMAJ
|January 23, 2002
PubMed
Summary

The term "epidemic" has varied definitions, causing confusion. Clarifying its meaning improves risk communication for both professionals and the public.

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Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health Communication

Background:

  • The 2000 West Nile fever outbreak in Israel highlighted confusion surrounding the term "epidemic."
  • Inconsistent definitions of "epidemic" can hinder clear communication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze diverse definitions of "epidemic" and "outbreak."
  • To propose strategies for enhancing the use of "epidemic" in professional and public communication.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of "epidemic" and "outbreak" definitions.
  • Inclusion of sources from popular literature, medical dictionaries, ancient texts, legal documents, and epidemiology textbooks.

Main Results:

  • Epidemiologists define "epidemic" as disease incidence exceeding prior expectations.

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  • Popular definitions often imply significant public danger and a large number of cases, differing from scientific definitions.
  • The term "epidemic" lacks a universally understood meaning, leading to potential misinterpretation.

    • Conclusions:

    • The interpretation of "epidemic" is context-dependent.
    • Contextual descriptors should accompany the term "epidemic" to improve risk communication effectiveness.