Infection rate: What is it used for and what should it be based on?

Understanding infection rates

What do infection numbers show?

Infection rates refer to the number of new cases of a given infectious disease within a specific time period and population. These numbers are crucial for monitoring disease outbreaks, assessing the effectiveness of public health interventions, and prioritizing resources for disease control. (Sources: Oxford University, ScienceDaily)​.

Data based on the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, illustrates how monitoring infection rates has been essential for guiding public health policies and vaccination efforts.

Methods for monitoring infection rates

Monitoring infection rates involves the use of epidemiological surveys, laboratory testing, and electronic health records. Modern technologies such as artificial intelligence and real-time data analytics are also improving our ability to rapidly detect and respond to disease outbreaks, enabling more accurate tracking and control of infectious diseases.

We often measure C-reactive protein (CRP) to investigate possible infections and to clarify whether these infections are caused by bacteria or viruses. (Source: Sundhed.dk). CRP will thus increase when there is an infection in the body, but normally CRP should be less than 10 mg/l. (Source: Kræftens Bekæmpelse).

Variations in infection rates

Infection rates in different age groups

Infection rates can vary significantly between different age groups – for example, the elderly and children are often more vulnerable to infections due to weaker immune systems. For example, studies show that COVID-19 has had a particularly high impact on older adults, while childhood illnesses such as RSV are more prevalent among young children. (Sources: Oxford University,​​ BioMed Central)​.

Seasonal variations in infection rates

Many infectious diseases also exhibit seasonal patterns.

For example, influenza and norovirus infections are typically more common in the winter, while other infections may increase in the summer.

These variations may be due to changes in weather conditions, human behavior, and virus survival outside the host.

Global infection rates

Infection rates also vary globally depending on healthcare infrastructure, hygiene standards, and access to medical care – for example, infection rates are often higher in developing countries due to limited access to clean water and healthcare.

Global comparison of infection rates therefore helps identify areas with the greatest need for health interventions. (Source: Nature)​​.

Infection rates and public health policies

Public health policies play a key role in controlling infection rates, and effective policies include vaccination, hygiene campaigns, and outbreak preparedness plans. For example, national vaccination programs have been crucial in reducing the incidence of diseases such as measles and polio. (Sources: Nature, BioMed Central)​.

Infection rates in light of pandemics

Pandemics like COVID-19 have significantly impacted global infection rates, exposing weaknesses in health systems and the need for better preparedness. Data from the pandemic has shown how global collaboration and data sharing are crucial to effectively controlling the spread of disease.

Infection rates and vaccination rates

There is a direct correlation between vaccination rates and infection rates. Higher vaccination rates reduce infection rates and the risk of disease outbreaks, and health campaigns that promote vaccination are therefore essential to maintaining high immunity coverage in the population.​ (Source: Oxford University).

The role of technology in tracking infection rates

Advanced technologies such as big data analytics, artificial intelligence and mobile health apps are playing an increasingly important role in tracking and monitoring infection rates, enabling faster and more accurate identification of outbreaks and supporting the development of targeted public health interventions.