Supporting Statement B Emergency Epidemic Investigations

Supporting Statement B

Emergency Epidemic Investigations

OMB No. 0920-0008

Project Officer: Ron Edwards Sr.

[email protected]

Program Analyst, EIS Program
Career Development Division
Office of Workforce and Career Development
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Road, NE, MS E-92
Atlanta, GA 30333
Voice: (404) 498-6316
Fax:    (404) 498-6535

November 23, 2009

Emergency Epidemic Investigations

OMB No. 0920-0008

2. Collections of Information Employing Statistical Methods

1. Respondent Universe and Sampling Methods

Most investigations of epidemics or emergencies require interviewing of all individuals affected by the condition in question. On some occasions, however, investigators interview a sample of affected individuals and matched controls. When statistical methods are employed in the collection of information, expert statistical assistance is available at CDC relating to sampling methodology, selection of controls, and design of questionnaires.

2. Procedures for the Collection of Information

In most cases, data are collected by self-administered questionnaire or personal interview. Procedures for each investigation depend on the time and resources available, number of persons involved, and other circumstances unique to the emergency at hand.

3. Methods to Maximize Response Rates and Deal with Non-response

Because of the cooperation of state and or local health departments, and the general interest and concern surrounding most epidemics or emergencies, response rates are very high (90–95%). Before administering questionnaires or interviews, investigators inform respondents (either verbally or in writing) that participation is voluntary, that respondents are not personally identified in any published reports of the study, and that their privacy will be protected by Federal law.

4. Test of Procedures or Methods to be Undertaken

Pilot tests of procedures for emergency epidemic investigations are rare because of the lack of time available before an investigation proceeds. However, for investigations which are similar, investigators may use standard forms and/or forms revised from previous investigations.

5. Individuals Consulted on Statistical Aspects and Individuals Collecting and/or Analyzing Data

The CDC epidemiologists conducting investigations are trained in biostatistics and epidemiology. In most cases, investigators collaborate extensively with health officials of the state or local health department requesting assistance. All investigations are supervised by experienced epidemiologists with expert statistical resources available.