How to Investigate
Unexplained Respiratory Disease Outbreaks (URDO)
The purpose of this website is to provide background, guidance, and resources to state and local health departments, as well as other public health professionals, to assist in the investigation of a cluster or outbreak of respiratory infections of
unknown etiology. Learn more >>
NOTE: If you are not a health professional and are looking for general public resources, see Recent Outbreaks & Incidents.
Resources for Public Health Investigators
- Investigate an Outbreak
Initial steps, line lists, make an epi curve, case questionnaire, sample data collection forms... - Generate a Differential Diagnosis
Lists of the most likely infectious causes or etiologies of the outbreak... - Specimen Collection & Handling
Specimen collection, handling, storage, and shipping... - Diagnostic Testing
Pathogen detection and characterization assays for selected respiratory pathogens... - Prevention
Infection control, respiratory hygiene... - Publications, References, & Additional Resources
Journal articles, MMWRs, media toolkits, and other resources... - Helpful Websites
Information on selected respiratory diseases; national, state and local resources...
- Page last updated August 26, 2008
- Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), Office of Infectious Diseases
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