Seasonal Variation in Host Susceptibility and Cycles of Certain Infectious Diseases
Author Information
Author(s): Scott F. Dowell
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
Regular annual variations in the incidence of many infectious diseases may be due to changes in susceptibility of the human host to the particular pathogen.
Conclusion
Photoperiod-driven changes in host physiology might explain certain enigmatic observations about seasonality.
Supporting Evidence
- Seasonal cycles of infectious diseases are influenced by changes in atmospheric conditions, pathogen virulence, and host behavior.
- Photoperiod-driven physiologic changes are typical in mammalian species, including humans.
- Statistically significant correlations between epidemic cycles and cycles of temperature and humidity have been identified.
Takeaway
The study suggests that people might get sick from infections more often at certain times of the year because their bodies are more susceptible to diseases during those times.
Methodology
The study involved a double-blind placebo-controlled trial where volunteers were given an influenza vaccine during different seasons to observe reactions and antibody responses.
Limitations
The specific physiologic feature responsible for increased susceptibility was not identified.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.003
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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