Sample size calculation for estimating key epidemiological parameters using serological data and mathematical modelling.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Our work was motivated by the need to, given serum availability and/or financial resources, decide on which samples to test in a serum bank for different pathogens. Simulation-based sample size calculations were performed to determine the age-based sampling structures and optimal allocation of a given number of samples for testing across various age groups best suited to estimate key epidemiological parameters (e.g., seroprevalence or force of infection) with acceptable precision levels in a cross-sectional seroprevalence survey.

Methods

Statistical and mathematical models and three age-based sampling structures (survey-based structure, population-based structure, uniform structure) were used. Our calculations are based on Belgian serological survey data collected

SUBMITTER: Blaizot S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6407263 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature