Developing audit standards required for outbreaks of communicable diseases-lessons from a mumps outbreak

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• A mumps outbreak in England and Wales (2004-05) prompted mass vaccination in Avon.
• An audit of the outbreak response identified a lack of established audit standards for communicable disease outbreaks.
• Existing literature and expert consultations revealed no comprehensive guidelines for such audits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an approach for developing audit standards for communicable disease outbreaks.
• To address the need for standardized evaluation of public health responses to disease outbreaks.

Main Methods:

• Developed audit standards based on a memorandum of understanding between the National Health Service and Health Protection Agency.
• Conducted an audit involving 25 staff members.

Main Results:

• The developed audit standards highlighted areas for improvement in training, strategic coordination, and communication.
• The absence of pre-defined audit standards complicated the initial audit process.
• Key areas for enhancement included consistency and timeliness of communication during the outbreak.

Conclusions:

• Developing comprehensive audit standards is essential for evaluating and improving responses to communicable disease outbreaks.
• These standards should encompass the structure, process, and outcomes of outbreak management.
• Standardized auditing is critical for effective outbreak control and public health preparedness.