1. How can surveillance help to detect and control the disease?
Surveillance is essential for detecting and controlling diseases like monkeypox. It enables early detection, monitors disease trends, identifies high-risk areas, evaluates control measures, and supports prevention and preparedness efforts by providing critical data for effective public health responses.
2. Should we conduct active or passive surveillance or both for the disease, why?
Combining active and passive surveillance methods is recommended for monitoring monkeypox. Active surveillance involves proactively seeking and reporting cases, while passive surveillance relies on voluntary reporting. This combination enhances case detection and provides a comprehensive understanding of disease patterns. The choice of approach depends on local factors and surveillance goals.
3.Which method should be best to identify cases, why?
To identify monkeypox cases, various methods can be used based on available resources and context:
a. Cases in medical facilities vs. community
Monitoring cases in healthcare facilities relies on providers recognizing and reporting cases, while community-based surveillance actively searches for cases in the community. Combining both methods provides a more complete picture.
b. Sentinel vs. population-based surveillance
Sentinel surveillance focuses on specific groups or areas for timely data, while population-based surveillance aims to capture information from the entire population. The choice depends on surveillance goals and resources.
c. Case-based vs. aggregated surveillance
Case-based surveillance collects detailed individual case data, while aggregated surveillance summarizes data for broader trends. The choice depends on surveillance objectives and resource availability.
d. Syndromic vs. laboratory-confirmed surveillance
Syndromic surveillance monitors symptoms without laboratory confirmation, while laboratory-confirmed surveillance uses tests to confirm cases. Combining both approaches can provide a comprehensive understanding of the disease.
The choice of methods should align with surveillance goals, available resources, and the local context. Combining different approaches may be necessary for effective monitoring of monkeypox.
4. What dissemination tools will you choose to disseminate monkeypox surveillance information? Why do you choose this/these tools?
To disseminate monkeypox surveillance information effectively, using tools such as social media, public health websites, and press releases is essential. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram reach a diverse audience quickly. Public health websites are trusted sources for healthcare professionals and the public, and press releases distribute information through news outlets. These methods make monkeypox surveillance information widely accessible, raising awareness and facilitating early detection and response to potential cases.