Tracking sickness through social networks – the practical use of social network mapping in supporting the management of an E. coli O157 outbreak in a primary school in London

Abstract

This paper describes the practical use of social network diagrams in the management of an outbreak of Escherichia coli O157 (VTEC) in a primary school in London. The diagrams were created during the outbreak to establish the extent and nature of person-to-person transmission in the cases and their contacts. The diagrams supported a tailored public health action, and hence aided in the control of the outbreak. We conclude that for selected infectious diseases, social network diagrams can provide a valuable tool in the management of an outbreak.