Event-Based surveillance (EBS) implementation in unstable and conflict settings: lessons learned from Sudan

Area of Science:

• Public Health Surveillance
• Epidemiology
• Conflict and Health

Background:

• Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) is crucial for early detection of public health threats, especially amid disruptions to traditional Indicator-Based Surveillance (IBS) caused by the conflict in Sudan.
• This article details the implementation of EBS in Sudan during wartime, focusing on maintaining functionality and adapting to evolving challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the experience of implementing Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) in Sudan.
• To highlight practical strategies for sustaining EBS operations during an ongoing conflict.
• To share lessons learned from EBS implementation in a challenging humanitarian context.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive qualitative synthesis and desk review of project reports, tools, and documents.
• Thematic analysis was employed to identify best practices, innovations, challenges, and lessons learned in EBS development and implementation.

Main Results:

• A nationwide network of community volunteers was successfully established and maintained for EBS.
• Innovative training and communication strategies were implemented for EBS focal persons and volunteers during the conflict.
• Data from EBS were integrated with IBS data for decision-making at the Emergency Operating Centre (EOC).
• Key success factors included careful volunteer selection, addressing volunteer needs, and consistent communication.

Conclusions:

• The EBS system in Sudan continued to function and maintain core activities despite resource limitations and active conflict.
• The commitment of partners and the Sudanese Government is vital for potentially expanding EBS to other areas.
• Strategic leveraging of existing commitments can enhance the reach and impact of EBS.