Influence of relative humidity in Vibrio cholerae infection: A time series model
2011

Impact of Humidity on Cholera Infections

Sample size: 2719 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Rajendran K., Sumi A., Bhattachariya M.K., Manna B., Sur D., Kobayashi N., Ramamurthy T.

Primary Institution: National Institute of Cholera & Enteric Diseases, Kolkata, India

Hypothesis

The study aims to investigate the relational impact of climate changes on cholera infections in Kolkata.

Conclusion

Higher relative humidity and moderate temperatures were found to be associated with increased Vibrio cholerae infections.

Supporting Evidence

  • V. cholerae infection was significantly associated with high relative humidity during the monsoon season.
  • Temperature and rainfall were found to be non-stationary but had significant relationships with cholera infections.
  • An unusual rise in V. cholerae infections was noted in December 2008 due to increased humidity.

Takeaway

When it's really humid and warm, more people get sick from cholera, a disease caused by bacteria in water.

Methodology

The study used a time series analysis of V. cholerae infection data over 13 years, applying SARIMA and GLM models.

Limitations

The study may not account for all environmental factors influencing cholera infections.

Participant Demographics

Data collected from hospitalized patients in Kolkata over 13 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.001

Confidence Interval

95%

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

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