Epidemiologist how-to

How to Build an Epidemic Curve

Epi curves show how outbreaks spread.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Epi curves show how outbreaks spread. In short: list; use; pick, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. List cases.

  2. Use onset dates.

  3. Pick time intervals.

  4. Plot cases.

  5. Look for patterns.

  6. Interpret.

Safety reminders for epidemiologists

  • Protect patient privacy
  • Use PPE in field work
  • Follow lab biosafety
  • Follow reporting laws

Incidence · Prevalence · Outbreak · Case definition · Surveillance · Risk factor: see the full epidemiologist glossary.

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