Epidemiologists use ideas from the study of crime detection to understand and explain epidemics by approaching the problem from a variety of angles. Ideas from crime detection help epidemiologists identify root causes of an epidemic, understand how it may spread, and develop effective strategies to contain and control them.
First, ideas from crime detection help epidemiologists identify and investigate the root cause of an epidemic. Just as criminal investigators will conduct an inquiry to determine the motives of a suspect, epidemiologists use detailed information to identify the source of an infectious agent, figure out why it might have been spreading, and trace the pathways it may have taken to spread beyond the original source. This helps them identify the root cause of an outbreak and understand what factors may have contributed to it, from social and economic conditions to public health measures like vaccination and hygiene, as well as possible unintentional sources of exposure like contaminated air or water.
Second, ideas from crime detection help epidemiologists to better understand the mechanisms by which an epidemic may spread, as well as the organizations or individuals that could be aiding in, or profiting from, the spread of the epidemic. This is similar to how criminal investigators can gather evidence to understand how a suspect may have gotten away with a crime, or who may have helped them to get away with it. For epidemiologists, this involves understanding which people or groups are most likely to come into contact with each other, and the likelihood that an infectious agent could spread amongst them. This could include studying how different age groups, classes, or professions interact, as well as investigating problems like overcrowding, inadequate access to sanitation and health services, or poor labor conditions that may facilitate the spread of a disease.
Finally, ideas from crime detection help epidemiologists develop effective strategies to contain and control an epidemic. Just like criminal investigators need to identify ways to stop the spread of crime, epidemiologists need to understand ways to interrupt the spread of an outbreak. This involves developing targeted prevention and containment measures that prioritize those most at risk of becoming infected, as well as establishing surveillance systems to monitor and track cases, and adapting strategies and policies as needed to keep up with the changing conditions of an outbreak. The same way criminal investigators will use technology and creative strategies to catch criminals, epidemiologists use technology, research, and creative public health measures to contain and control epidemics.