The index case or patient zero is the first documented patient in a disease epidemic within a population, [1] or the first documented patient included in an epidemiological study. [2]

index case, in public health, the first case of a disease or other condition that is noticed by health authorities. Index cases may be reported in relation to infectious disease outbreaks or to occurrences of noninfectious diseases or health conditions.

Sep 17, 2021 · The index case refers to the first patient identified by health authorities with a disease which makes the team aware of a possible outbreak. On the other hand, the primary case refers to a person who brings disease to a community, school, another person, school or …

The meaning of INDEX CASE is the first documented case of an infectious disease or genetically transmitted condition or mutation in a population, region, or family. How to use index case in a sentence.

Dec 6, 2014 · Scientists—and journalists—are increasingly using the term index case when they actually mean primary case. Both terms are well defined for outbreaks, 1 and should not be confused.

An index case is the case around which a contact investigation is centered. Because the investigation generally focuses on a defined group of potentially exposed people in which other (secondary) cases may be found, the index case is generally the case identified initially, although she or he may not be the source case.

Nov 23, 2024 · The index or primary case is the initial patient in the population of an epidemiological investigation. The index case may indicate the source of the disease, the possible spread, and which reservoir holds the disease in-between outbreaks.

UC Davis Health announces it is treating the first apparent case of COVID-19 acquired by community spread, making headlines around the world and driving changes to national testing guidelines. UC Davis clinicians had initially suspected their transferred patient’s mystery illness was COVID-19, but were unable to confirm immediately due to the ...

Aug 24, 2020 · The term ‘index case’ refers to the first individual diagnosed with FH in the family. Identifying index cases is important because it represents the starting point for family tracing, referred to as ‘cascade screening’, by which the majority of …

INDEX CASE definition: 1. the first known case in a group of people of a disease or medical condition that can be passed…. Learn more.