Applications of Syndromic Surveillance in Resource Poor Settings

Citations Over Time

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study is to demonstrate how syndromic surveillance systems are being used in low‐resource settings, to identify key best practices and considerations, and to describe the use of syndromic surveillance as a feasible solution to meeting the disease surveillance requirements in the World Health Organization's International Health Regulations (2005). Methods: Information on established syndromic surveillance systems was collected from peer‐reviewed articles, conference proceedings and searches through reference lists of papers, from the years 1998‐2010. In addition, web pages of international health organizations, surveillance networks, and Ministries of Health were explored. After reviewing identified systems, eight were selected and examined in detail to extract transferable information. Results: The literature demonstrates the many successful syndromic surveillance efforts being implemented, and the variety of data sources, data transmission techniques, and analysis methodologies being instituted. Frequently, syndromic surveillance systems are a coordinated effort among several partners, supplement existing systems, incorporate both specific and non‐specific disease detection, and are used in conjunction with laboratory‐based surveillance. Conclusions: Though not without challenges, syndromic surveillance has the potential to serve as a valuable disease detection tool in resource‐limited settings. Further examination and evaluation of these systems will benefit global disease surveillance capacity.

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