What Role do Asymptomatic Cases Play in Epidemics?
Asymptomatic cases can significantly impact the course of an epidemic:
Undetected Spread: Asymptomatic individuals may unknowingly spread the disease, leading to community transmission and making containment efforts more challenging. Herd Immunity: Asymptomatic infections contribute to the development of herd immunity, potentially reducing the overall spread of the disease. Intervention Effectiveness: The presence of asymptomatic cases can influence the effectiveness of public health interventions, such as vaccination and social distancing measures.