Investigating outbreaks: practical guidance in the Indian scenario
Manoj Murhekar1, Ron Moolenaar, Yvan Hutin
1National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), R 127, Third Avenue, Tamil Nadu Housing Board, Phase I and II, Ayapakkam, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India. mmurhekar@gmail.com
The National Medical Journal of India
|March 26, 2010
Summary
Investigating public health emergencies requires robust methods and trained personnel. Field epidemiology training programs build essential capacity for evidence-based outbreak investigation and decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Regulations
Background:
- The International Health Regulations (2005) mandate national focal points for managing public health emergencies.
- Outbreak investigation is complex, often hampered by time constraints and pressure for rapid conclusions.
- Traditional outbreak investigation methods face challenges in delivering evidence-based outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges in outbreak investigation.
- To emphasize the importance of capacity building in field epidemiology.
- To present a model for training epidemiologists in outbreak investigation.
Main Methods:
- Review of the classical 10-step approach to outbreak investigation.
- Description of the structure and function of Field Epidemiology Training Programmes in India.
- Focus on the role of peer-review in quality assurance.
Main Results:
- Field Epidemiology Training Programmes train junior epidemiologists to lead investigations with faculty support.
- This approach aims to foster a culture of evidence-based decision-making in public health.
- Training strengthens health systems beyond outbreak response.
Conclusions:
- Capacity building through dedicated training programs is crucial for effective outbreak investigation.
- Training fosters a generation of epidemiologists skilled in evidence-based public health practice.
- Strengthening outbreak investigation capabilities enhances overall health system resilience.
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