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Nonpharmaceutical Measures for Pandemic Influenza in Nonhealthcare Settings—Social Distancing Measures

Authors :
Min W. Fong
Huizhi Gao
Jessica Y. Wong
Jingyi Xiao
Eunice Y.C. Shiu
Sukhyun Ryu
Benjamin J. Cowling
Source :
Emerging Infectious Diseases, Vol 26, Iss 5, Pp 976-984 (2020)
Publication Year :
2020
Publisher :
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020.

Abstract

Influenza virus infections are believed to spread mostly by close contact in the community. Social distancing measures are essential components of the public health response to influenza pandemics. The objective of these mitigation measures is to reduce transmission, thereby delaying the epidemic peak, reducing the size of the epidemic peak, and spreading cases over a longer time to relieve pressure on the healthcare system. We conducted systematic reviews of the evidence base for effectiveness of multiple mitigation measures: isolating ill persons, contact tracing, quarantining exposed persons, school closures, workplace measures/closures, and avoiding crowding. Evidence supporting the effectiveness of these measures was obtained largely from observational studies and simulation studies. Voluntary isolation at home might be a more feasible social distancing measure, and pandemic plans should consider how to facilitate this measure. More drastic social distancing measures might be reserved for severe pandemics.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
10806040 and 10806059
Volume :
26
Issue :
5
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Emerging Infectious Diseases
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.125b29fd3b6b4f89a23678c255002617
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2605.190995