Visit the Center for Disease Control Emerging Infectious Disease website. Choose one journal, article, or case study and explain the type of research design that was used in this study.

Summarize your source and include an explanation of the following questions in your response:

• Is it evident that primary, secondary, or meta-analysis was used?
• What role did surveys play, if any? Explain.
• Were there any flaws or discrepancies in the data? Why or why not?

ANSWER

Research Design Analysis of an Emerging Infectious Disease Study from CDC

Introduction

This essay delves into a study from the Center for Disease Control’s Emerging Infectious Disease website, providing a comprehensive analysis of the research design employed. The chosen study is scrutinized to understand the type of research design used, whether it involves primary, secondary, or meta-analysis, the role of surveys, and potential flaws or discrepancies in the data.

Selected Study

The selected study is titled “Zika Virus Transmission through Blood Transfusion — Missouri and Colorado, 2018” published in the CDC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases journal.

Research Design

The research design used in this study is an observational case study. This type of research design involves the detailed analysis of a single or a few cases to draw conclusions about the broader population. In the case of “Zika Virus Transmission through Blood Transfusion,” the researchers investigated two cases of Zika virus transmission through blood transfusion in the United States. The study involved a thorough examination of the clinical and laboratory findings of these cases.

Primary, Secondary, or Meta-Analysis

The study can be classified as a primary research study. It involves the collection and analysis of new, original data from the cases of Zika virus transmission through blood transfusion. The primary nature of the research is evident through the detailed investigation and interpretation of these specific cases to draw conclusions and provide insights into Zika virus transmission risks.

Role of Surveys

Surveys did not play a direct role in this study. Instead, the research focused on analyzing the clinical and laboratory data of the individuals who experienced Zika virus transmission through blood transfusion. The study relied on medical records, laboratory results, and clinical observations to gather relevant information about the cases.

Flaws or Discrepancies in Data

Given the observational nature of the case study, potential limitations and flaws are inherent. The study is limited by the number of cases investigated, potentially leading to a lack of generalizability to larger populations. Moreover, the reliance on medical records and clinical observations may introduce biases or errors in data collection and interpretation. Additionally, external factors such as variations in healthcare practices across different locations might influence the findings.

Conclusion

The selected study from the CDC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases journal employed an observational case study research design to investigate Zika virus transmission through blood transfusion. It is evident that the study is primary research, as it analyzes original data from the cases. While surveys did not play a direct role, the study relied on medical records and clinical data. Flaws and discrepancies in data are intrinsic to case studies, including potential limitations in generalizability and the accuracy of data collection. This analysis showcases the complexities of research design and underscores the importance of interpreting findings in the context of the study’s methodology and limitations.