Effect of acute illness on contact patterns, Malawi, 2017

Glynn, J. R., McLean, E., Malava, J., Dube, A., Katundu, C., Crampin, A. C. and Geis, S. (2020) Effect of acute illness on contact patterns, Malawi, 2017. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 26(1), pp. 44-50. (doi: 10.3201/eid2601.181539) (PMID:31855144) (PMCID:PMC6924881)

Abstract

The way persons interact when ill could profoundly affect transmission of infectious agents. To obtain data on these patterns in Africa, we recorded self-reported named contacts and opportunities for casual contact in rural northern Malawi. We interviewed 384 patients and 257 caregivers about contacts over three 24-hour periods: day of the clinic visit for acute illness, the next day, and 2 weeks later when well. For participants of all ages, the number of adult contacts and the proportion using public transportation was higher on the day of the clinic visit than later when well. Compared with the day after the clinic visit, well participants (2 weeks later) named a mean of 0.4 extra contacts; the increase was larger for indoor or prolonged contacts. When well, participants were more likely to visit other houses and congregate settings. When ill, they had more visitors at home. These findings could help refine models of infection spread.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: The study was funded by a grant from the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team, which is funded by the UK Department of Health and Social Care.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Crampin, Professor Mia
• Authors: Glynn, J. R., McLean, E., Malava, J., Dube, A., Katundu, C., Crampin, A. C., and Geis, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Public Health
• Journal Name: Emerging Infectious Diseases
• Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• ISSN: 1080-6040
• ISSN (Online): 1080-6059
• First Published: First published in Emerging Infectious Diseases 26(1):44-50
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License