Technical Guidelines for Integrated Disease Surveillance ... - PHRplus

Laboratory technician/laboratory technologist from the district reference laboratoryRepresentative from other sectors (e.g. water, education and agriculture)From non-governmental organizations with health care activities in the area: Representatives from community health programmes/mission hospitalsRepresentatives from other agencies operating in the district as necessary (e.g. Red Cross)From the private sector: Clinician from private hospital, clinic or laboratoryPharmacist/chemical seller5.1.1.2 District epidemic rapid response teamThe district should establish a rapid response team with the appropriate technical expertise. The followingmembers are suggested: An epidemiologist/public health specialist (disease control officer) Laboratory technologist/technician ClinicianEnvironmental health officerThe district epidemic rapid response team will have the following responsibilities: Participate in the DEMC Conduct epidemiological investigation of suspected outbreaks Carry out disease control measures to contain the outbreaks Report progress regularlyEvaluate the outbreak response5.1.2 Hold regular meetings of the DEMCA good surveillance system requires constant vigilance and preparation. This means that the DEMC shouldmeet regularly – preferably every month, but at least every quarter – even in the absence of a disease outbreak.In the event of an outbreak, the DEMC should meet as soon as the epidemic is recognised and continue to holdmeetings as often as needed to plan, implement, monitor and report on the response to the epidemic.During meetings, the committee should do the following:Review surveillance data for trends that cause a concern for public healthMake sure that the medical supervisors in all the health facilities in the district know and use protocolsfor recommended case management of priority diseases and conditionsMake sure appropriate staff know the steps for obtaining laboratory confirmationPeriodically review and update inventory of supplies needed for disease response to make sure they aredry, clean and ready for use (ideally, this is done every three months): Equipment and supplies for treatment Supplies for collecting and transporting specimens for confirmationVaccines and supplies for administering vaccinationsSection 5: Respond to Outbreaks and Other Public Health Problems55