Question

Choose the correct order of sequence of steps involved in investigation of an epidemic:
• [A.] Verification and Confirmation of epidemic
• [B.] Collecting information, hypothesis formulation and testing
• [C.] Defining population at risk and developing valid case definition
• [D.] Final laboratory proof of cause and effect relationship Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. D, A, B, C
• B. D, B, A, C
• C. A, C, B, D
• D. B, A, C, D

Hint:

Epidemic investigation starts with verification, followed by case definition, hypothesis testing, and finally laboratory confirmation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Investigation of an epidemic follows a systematic sequence to identify the cause, affected population, and methods of control. The major steps include:
• Verification and confirmation of epidemic
• Defining population at risk and case definition
• Data collection and hypothesis testing
• Laboratory confirmation of cause This sequence helps identify the source and control the spread of disease.

Step 1: Identify the first step.
The first step is to verify whether an epidemic truly exists and confirm the diagnosis. Thus, the first stage is: \[ A \; (\text{Verification and Confirmation of epidemic}) \]

Step 2: Identify the second step.
After confirmation, the population at risk is identified and a valid case definition is developed. Thus, the second stage is: \[ C \; (\text{Defining population at risk and developing valid case definition}) \]

Step 3: Identify the third step.
Next, information is collected, hypotheses are formulated, and tested epidemiologically. Thus, the third stage is: \[ B \; (\text{Collecting information, hypothesis formulation and testing}) \]

Step 4: Identify the final step.
Finally, laboratory proof establishes the causal relationship. Thus, the last stage is: \[ D \; (\text{Final laboratory proof of cause and effect relationship}) \]

Step 5: Determine the correct sequence.
Therefore, the correct order is: \[ A \rightarrow C \rightarrow B \rightarrow D \] Hence, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{(C)\ A, C, B, D} \]