Lessons Learned From Implementation of Mpox Surveillance During an Outbreak Response in Tennessee, 2022

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• The 2022 mpox outbreak underscored the critical role of effective surveillance systems.
• Evaluating surveillance implementation is crucial for optimizing responses to emerging infectious diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess mpox surveillance implementation in Tennessee during the 2022 outbreak.
• To identify areas for improvement in infectious disease surveillance systems.

Main Methods:

• Conducted 8 focus groups and 7 interviews with 36 healthcare, laboratory, and health department representatives.
• Analyzed qualitative data from transcriptions and notes.
• Assessed completeness and timeliness of 349 orthopoxvirus-positive laboratory reports.

Main Results:

• Existing informatics platforms were inefficient for evolving reporting needs.
• Incomplete laboratory data was common, with only 55% of reports containing full patient contact information.
• Significant delays were observed from symptom onset to patient interview (median 9 days).

Conclusions:

• Standardized surveillance approaches are vital for rapid implementation during emerging disease outbreaks.
• Enhanced collaboration and adaptable informatics platforms are needed to improve data completeness and timeliness.
• Timely surveillance data is essential for effective public health interventions and mitigating disease spread.