Eleven Blue Men
The true story of the eleven blue men by Berton Roueché is one of the staple readings for many
who study public health and epidemiology. The story takes place in late 1944 and centers upon
eleven men who, aside from their breakfast location, have little to do with one another. However,
what makes this story unique and of interest today is that it highlights the speed and importance
of a proper epidemiologic investigation.
Read “Eleven Blue Men.”
After reading, answer the following questions:
Describe the 10 steps of an outbreak investigation as it pertains to this particular event in 1944.
That is, for each step highlight where in the event that step occurred.
On your own, draw the epidemic curve for this incident. In your submitted assignment identify the
type of curve it represents.
Calculate and state the incubation period for the illness affecting the eleven blue men.
Identify three questions that Dr. Greenberg asked the patients.
Identify three questions that Dr. Pellitteri asked the patients.
Identify three questions that the epidemiologists asked the Eclipse Cafeteria employees.
Identify the culprit. Also, what about these men was unique when compared to the other people
who ate in the cafeteria that day?
Provide at least two additional questions you would have liked the investigators to have asked
the patients or employees. Why do you feel these questions would have helped?
The Eleven Blue Men assignment
Must be at least two to three double-spaced pages in length (not including title and references
pages) and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the University Writing Center.
Must contain responses to these questions that are placed in paragraph form, not simply listed
as bullets.
You need to demonstrate that you can collect, compile, and present a broad array of information
in a narrative form.
Must include a separate title page with the following:
Title of paper
Student’s name
Course name and number
Instructor’s name
Date submitted
Must include introduction and conclusion paragraphs
Must document all sources in APA style as outlined here and here.
Must include a separate references page that is formatted according to APA style as outlined in
the University Writing Center.