There is a growing awareness that the home plays an important role in the acquisition and transmission of infectious intestinal disease (IID) in many parts of the world. The home is a complex multifunctional setting, a microcosm of many other settings in the community, and it is likely that the acquisition and transmission of IID in the home reflects this complexity. A process called “knowledge mapping” was used to summarize available data, assumptions and theories related to acquisition and transmission of IID in the home. The learning objectives of this knowledge mapping exercise were as follows : 1. identify the sources of IID agents into the home 2. determine all of the different potential animate and inanimate routes of transmission within the home and 3. describe the range of consequences of IID, including not only symptoms and complications but also the economic and quality of life costs to the individual and the economic burden on society. This analysis can subsequently be used to confirm plausibility of hygiene interventions targeted at blocking the transmission of IID’s in the home or to identify new opportunties for interventions and education. Since it is difficult to determine the health outcome of such interventions, knowledge mapping can provide an additional tool to aid in the responsible application of interventions, including surface disinfection, in the home. All of the factors discussed are captured in greater detail in a knowledge map. The exercise of knowledge mapping also identifies many gaps in our knowledge about IID in the home.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Emerging Diseases, Home Based
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.