The Italian information system on zoonoses data collection.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Information Systems Management

Background:

• Italy is obligated to report zoonotic disease data to the European Union (EU), including the European Commission and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
• Effective monitoring and control of zoonoses are crucial for national and international public health security.
• Previous data management systems may not have met evolving legislative and technological standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a national information system for comprehensive zoonoses monitoring and control in Italy.
• To ensure compliance with Italian and EU legislation regarding zoonotic disease reporting.
• To leverage e-Government principles for improved data management and administrative efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Commissioning the Istituto G. Caporale (ICT) to develop and implement a dedicated information system.
• Integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) for digital document processing.
• Aligning the system with national and EU legislative frameworks and e-Government strategies.

Main Results:

• An operational information system is in place for collecting and disseminating data on zoonoses.
• The system facilitates the reporting of zoonotic disease status and control activities.
• It supports the simplification and interoperability of administrative procedures related to zoonoses.

Conclusions:

• The implemented information system effectively addresses Italy's international obligations for zoonoses surveillance.
• The system represents a significant step in modernizing public health data management through e-Government.
• It enhances the capacity for monitoring and controlling zoonotic diseases within Italy.