Open AccessSyndromic surveillance: A necessary public health tool
Author(s) -
Fatimah Lateef
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
journal of acute disease
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2589-5516
pISSN - 2221-6189
DOI - 10.1016/s2221-6189(13)60022-0
Subject(s) - mindset , medicine , preparedness , public health , work (physics) , public relations , outbreak , medical emergency , nursing , management , mechanical engineering , philosophy , epistemology , virology , political science , engineering , economics
Of late much has been said about emerging infectious diseases and the threat of bioterrorism. The focus has been on continuous public health surveillance for early detection of outbreaks and potential threats. Preparedness is the way forward and relevant institutions and organizations need to make the necessary investments early. Familiarity, good coordination, active participation and a change of mindset amongst personnel is crucial to make the system work. We also share a general approach to using electronic Emergency Department data for syndromic surveillance