It is necessary for a researcher to depict the use of epidemiological statements in research works and the diverse statistical information. The capability is vital in enhancing the level of understanding of disease patterns or risks and the main predisposing factors that contribute to the disease. This paper aims at identifying the various epidemiological statements and statistics used in two articles.
Epidemiology
One of the epidemiologic statements is that the Zika virus was initially discovered in Uganda in 1947 and was confined along the equatorial belt between Asia and Africa (Fauci & and Morens, 2016). Another statement reveals that the Zika virus initially circulated amongst arboreal mosquitoes such as the Aedes africanus and wild primates and its infection of humans was rare.
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A pattern was also identified in 2013 where the spread of chikungunya from the west to the east preceded Zika. Researchers also discovered that Zika epizootics that are transmitted by the Aedes mosquito followed chikungunya epizootics that were also transmitted by the same mosquito. Also, the aboviruses that have been observed in the Western Hemisphere are primarily spread by the aedes mosquitoes primarily the A. aegypti vector that is known for causing yellow fever.
In summary, the epidemiologic statements reveals that the Zika virus is a global concern due to the increased spread of the aboviruses by the aedes mosquito. The spread of the Zika virus into the Americas is further complicated by the adaptation of the aboviruses to domesticated animals like horses and pigs. The prevalence of aboviruses in human ecosystems is a concern as it provides an opportunity for such viruses to adapt and spread through other vectors.
The statements reveal that the changes in environment and the increased resistance of mosquitoes to preventive measures exposes populations to infections by aboviruses spread through vectors like the aedes mosquito. Also, the possibility of such vectors spreading more than one disease-causing virus is a cause of concern noting the association between Zika virus and the prevalence of microcephaly in new-born children.
Biostatistics
The data reveals the various characteristics of the participants in the study. For instance, maternal rash was prevalent during the first trimester as 57% of those examined had maternal rash during the first trimester of their pregnancy while 14% had the condition during the second trimester of their pregnancy (Schuler-Faccini, Ribeiro, Feitosa & Horovitz, 2016). Also, most of the children born had reached term as 91% had reached term while 9% were pre-term.
In terms of weight, 74% weighed either 2500 grams or more while 26% weighed less than 2500 grams. In terms of defect, those with head circumference of 3 standard deviations above the mean were 71% while those with head circumference between 2 standard deviations and 3 were 29%. Further, 31% had excessive and redundant scalp skin while 14% had club foot. Also, 11% had arthrogryposis while 3%b had microphthalmia. Upon neurological examination, 37% had hypertonia, 20% had hyperreflexia and a further 20% had irritability.
Most of the statistical measures are provided in percentages with respect to the population. The figures reveal the major characteristics observed in the population that are vital in drawing inferences and conclusions.
Summary
The understanding of epidemiology is crucial as it facilitates the measurement of various outcomes of a disease in a given population or community that is perceived to be at risk. It also provides a basis to determine the distribution of disease-causing vectors and viruses. The availability of such epidemiological information and statistics is crucial in revealing the origin of diseases in the community. The identity of the origins is vital in facilitating the adoption of preventive measures to address the observed patterns and trends revealed by epidemiology and statistics.
References
Fauci, A. & and Morens, D. (2016). Zika Virus in the Americas-Yet another Arbovirus Threat. The New England Journal of Medicine , 610-603.
Schuler-Faccini, L., Ribeiro, E., Feitosa, I. & Horovitz, D. (2016). Possible Association between Zika Virus Infection and Microcephaly-Brazil, 2015. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 65 (3), 59-62.
