Field Epidemiology

by Michael Gregg (Editor)

Overview

This book is the definitive guide to field epidemiology- the application of epidemiologic methods to unexpected health problems when a rapid, on-site investigation is necessary. As such, it is an indispensable resource for state and local health agencies and healthcare professionals. This third edition includes a chapter on environmental investigations and one on immunization strategies and evaluation. Chapters have been revised and updated with new cases and examples.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780199886111
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	07/15/2008
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	8 MB

About the Author

Michael B. Gregg, M.D., was Director of the Viral Disease Division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for ten years. He served as Editor of the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report for twenty-one years and was Deputy Director of the Epidmeiology Program Office at the CDC for nineteen years. In addition, he is the author of over eighty articles and collaborative reports in the field of epidemiology and public health.

Editorial Reviews

This book is designed to serve as a guide and resource for epidemiologists working in the field, i.e., away from their usual work site, as they investigate unexpected health problems. Although there are many texts that present the concepts and principles of epidemiology, few address the practical, logistical, legal, and communications problems encountered in the real-life practice of this profession. "The book fills this important void and provides a balance of technical with practical issues through the contributions of experienced practitioners of epidemiology, most of whom are based at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. "This work is definitely targeted toward public health practitioners, although it will be a valuable resource for students as well. "Features of the book include ample graphs, charts, and tables illustrating the methods and principles of field epidemiology. The appearance, table of contents, and index are adequate, and the references are timely and appropriate. The book's outstanding feature is its practice orientation, which will be well received by those practicing and learning this mother science of public health. "This most useful and welcome addition to the public health literature adds to an increasing number of books that focus on the actual practice, as opposed to the theoretical basis, of public health. It would be well used in virtually any health sciences library.

Bernard J. Turnock

The field epidemiologist applies basic epidemiological approaches towards the solution of health problems of an urgent or emergency nature. Gregg, a former director of the Epidemiology Program Office of the Center for Disease Control, presents 22 chapters that apply the lessons of the experience of the CDC in training field epidemiologists in this overview of field epidemiological practice. Fundamental theoretical considerations and definitions are considered before the basic components of the practice, from field investigations to findings communication, are explained. Also covered are special issues such as surveys and sampling; use of microcomputers; dealing with the public and the press; legal aspects; investigations in institutional, day-care, and international settings; and the collection and handling of laboratory specimens. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR