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This initial study can result in a) no etiologic connection, b) an
etiologic connection which is already known, and c) a new possible
etiologic connection. In general, for the first result, the
investigation is declared over; in the second, preventive intervention
to stop further exposure is instituted; and for the last option, the
cluster investigation may have resulted in a new disease-toxin
connection. In this latter case, the Investigator must remember that
additional investigations in new locations must take place to prove the
possible etiologic connection. It may also be appropriate to perform
toxicologic studies. Public health intervention may be warranted even
with limited scientific evidence.
Finally, communication through this process is essential for any
resolution to occur.
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