Characterizing the initial diffusion pattern of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 using surveillance data.
Using notification data, diffusion of pandemic human influenza A (H1N1) 2009 in Hong Kong was explored with geographic information system (GIS) methodology. Point data were displayed and then analysed with interpolation and the application of SaTScan. Beginning from 6 initial foci, the spatial distribution has remained heterogeneous at the end of the first three months, with students functioning as the main disseminators. Our study showed that routinely collected surveillance data could be effectively used for describing the epidemic, which could support the development of interventions at local levels.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Shui Shan
SS
Lee
Ngai Sze
NS
Wong