Title: Enhancing quality of data through automated SARS contact tracing method using RFID technology

Authors: Shamshul Bahri

Addresses: School of Information Systems, Computing, and Mathematics, Brunel University, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, UK

Abstract: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) contact tracing is one of the most important measures in containing the spread of SARS outbreak. Consequently, the success of the exercise depends highly on the quality of data collected. Thus, two current methods of SARS contact tracing: manual method and automated method using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, are assessed for their data quality. The findings suggest that automated SARS contact tracing possesses higher quality of data than manual SARS contact tracing. As a result, countries that are planning for SARS and other types of epidemic and pandemic outbreaks should consider the use of ICT, especially RFID in controlling the spread of the disease.

Keywords: severe acute respiratory syndrome; SARS; contact tracing; data quality; radio frequency identification; RFID; health protection units; HPU.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNVO.2007.013540

International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations, 2007 Vol.4 No.2, pp.145 - 162

Published online: 04 May 2007 *

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