Background
In epidemics, such as those of meningitis in the Sahel region of Africa, the vaccination starts once the observed number of cases exceeds the level, defined by the WHO. Earlier vaccination could, in principle, prevent more cases and thus reduce the burden of disease, but it could also be unnecessary or of the wrong type. Additional information, such as seasonal patterns, spatial relationship and correlation with natural phenomena, e.g., dust storms, may provide better information and ultimately lead to more efficient decision making. Acting now vs. waiting for more information is another interesting aspect to be studied.Data
TBDMethods
TBDResults
TBDStatus
Brainstorming (as of February 2008).
Figure: Conceptual framework: comparison of the burden of disease associated with different vaccination initialization times.