The Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) framework makes surveillance and laboratory data more usable, helping public health managers and decision-makers improve detection and response to the leading causes of illness, death, and disability in African countries. The course is laid out in 7 modules that walk participants through the Technical Guidelines (TGs) chapter by chapter. By the end of the course, participants will be familiar with the TGs and capable of utilizing them appropriately in their position.

Course Objectives

By the end of this module, the participant will be able to:

·         Conduct effective surveillance activities

·         Integrate multiple surveillance systems to use resources more efficiently

·         Improve the use of information for detecting, investigating and responding to public health threats

·         Improve the flow of surveillance information throughout the health system

·

Course content

Module 1: Identifying cases of priority diseases, conditions and events

Module 2: Reporting priority diseases, conditions and events

Module 3: Analyzing and interpreting data

Module 4: Investigating and confirming suspected cases, outbreaks and other events of public health importance

Module 5: Preparation to respond to outbreaks and other public health events

Module 6: Monitoring, Evaluating and Improving Surveillance and Response

Module 7: Providing Feedback

Checklist of supplies needed for participants:

* Pencil and sharpener

* Paper

* Eraser

*Ruler

* Calculator (if available)

Methodology

This course is designed to first provide participants with information then provide examples of how to apply the information and conclude with an opportunity to practice applying the information or skill. In order to facilitate this process, several methods are used: readings, lectures, individual work, small group discussion and large group discussion.