The sixth article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks looks beyond the acute epidemic to the rationale for surveillance systems, mandatory notification and social determinants.

Clinic managers are encouraged to review their follow-up and electronic reminder systems, as these are associated with benefits for clients who require secondary prophylaxis for acute rheumatic fever.

This first article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks explains terms used by public health authorities during epidemics.

This second article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks focuses on case definitions, testing and early phases of a public health response.

This third article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks focuses on contact tracing, fondly known as ‘shoe-leather epidemiology’.

This fourth article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks introduces the larger legislative, executive and social framework within which health protection takes place.

This fifth article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks explores ethical aspects of public health action, information disclosure and research in an epidemic.