[Study on the application of Knox method to temporal-spatial cluster for infectious diseases].
OBJECTIVE
Application of Knox method was discussed in exploring temporal-spatial cluster for infectious diseases.


METHODS
The theory of Knox method was introduced in detail. As an example, the temporal-spatial cluster of epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis cases from April to May in 2005 was explored in Beijing and the statistical process of Knox method was clearly demonstrated with related results well interpreted.


RESULTS
Only when time and distance threshold values were set as 13 days and 29.67 km, potential temporal-spatial cluster could be detected in epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis cases.


CONCLUSIONS
According to the characteristics of the epidemics, under Knox method, if appropriate threshold values of time and distance were chosen, information on temporal-spatial cluster of infectious diseases could be obtained. According to the records of different time and distance threshold values, the nature of an infectious disease might be explored. Thus Knox method could help us to strengthen the early warning system on infectious disease control strategy.
Liu
Qiao-Lan
QL
Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Li
Xiao-Song
XS
Feng
Zi-Jian
ZJ
Ma
Jia-Qi
JQ
D002681:China / Q000453:epidemiology; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D006801:Humans; D008581:Meningitis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D013997:Time Factors