Comparing early outbreak detection algorithms based on their optimized parameter values

BackgroundMany researchers have evaluated the performance of outbreak detection algorithms with recommended parameter values. However, the influence of parameter values on algorithm performance is often ignored.MethodsBased on reported case counts of bacillary dysentery from 2005 to 2007 in Beijing, semi-synthetic datasets containing outbreak signals were simulated to evaluate the performance of five outbreak detection algorithms. Parameters’ values were optimized prior to the evaluation.ResultsDifferences in performances were observed as parameter values changed. Of the five algorithms, space–time permutation scan statistics had a specificity of 99.9% and a detection time of less than half a day. The exponential weighted moving average exhibited the shortest detection time of 0.1 day, while the modified C1, C2 and C3 exhibited a detection time of close to one day.ConclusionThe performance of these algorithms has a correlation to their parameter values, which may affect the performance evaluation.