Enhancing preparedness for tackling new epidemic threats.
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT:
SUBMITTER: Zumla A
PROVIDER: S-EPMC7134388 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Aug
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Publications
Enhancing preparedness for tackling new epidemic threats.
Zumla Alimuddin A Ippolito Giuseppe G McCloskey Brian B Bates Matthew M Ansumana Rashid R Heymann David D Kock Richard R Ntoumi Francine F
The Lancet. Respiratory medicine 20170518 8
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| S-EPMC7158988 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundEffective epidemic preparedness is critical for minimizing the health and societal impacts of viral respiratory infections. This study details the development of a data-driven early warning system (EWS) designed to improve outbreak detection and response utilizing the data integration and visualization capabilities of Microsoft Power BI.MethodsThis research utilized a structured three-phase approach to design a respiratory infections (RIs) management dashboard. Phase 1, focused on identifying critical variables through literature reviews and expert interviews. In Phase 2, Microsoft Power BI was employed for dashboard development, integrating data from diverse sources. Phase 3 involved usability testing with health professionals who evaluated navigation, data accuracy, decision-support features, providing feedback to enhance visualization clarity and filtering capabilities.ResultsKey data categories include individual-level variables, such as age, symptoms, and vaccination records, alongside population-level metrics like infection rates and regional vaccination coverage enabling functionalities such as identifying high-risk individuals, tracking infection dynamics, and optimizing resource allocation. The dashboard, developed using Power BI visualizes epidemiological trends, intervention outcomes, and resource utilization. A relational database schema ensures efficient data retrieval, facilitating comprehensive analysis.ConclusionThe prototype EWS represents a scalable and integrative framework aimed at enhancing public health applications, particularly in the context of respiratory infections. By incorporating data from diverse health sectors, the system offers decision-makers access to critical epidemiological indicators, supporting early outbreak detection and improved epidemic management. Its potential to unify health institutions underscores its value in fostering a more cohesive and effective approach to epidemic preparedness. Nevertheless, while the system demonstrates significant promise, further evaluation in real-world settings is essential to determine its practical impact on public health outcomes and its ability to mitigate health crises.
| S-EPMC11792683 | biostudies-literature
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| S-EPMC1126257 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundAs demonstrated during the global Ebola crisis of 2014-2016, healthcare institutions in high resource settings need support concerning preparedness during threats of infectious disease outbreaks. This study aimed to exploratively develop a standardized preparedness system to use during unfolding threats of severe infectious diseases.MethodsA qualitative three-step study among infectious disease prevention and control experts was performed. First, interviews (n = 5) were conducted to identify which factors trigger preparedness activities during an unfolding threat. Second, these triggers informed the design of a phased preparedness system which was tested in a focus group discussion (n = 5) were conducted to identify which factors trigger preparedness activities during an unfolding threat. Second, these triggers informed the design of a phased preparedness system which was tested in a focus group discussion (n = 5) were conducted to identify which factors trigger preparedness activities during an unfolding threat. Second, these triggers informed the design of a phased preparedness system which was tested in a focus group discussion (.ResultsFour preparedness phases were identified: preparedness phase green is a situation without the presence of the infectious disease threat that requires centralized care, anywhere in the world. Phase yellow is an outbreak in the world with some likelihood of imported cases. Phase orange is a realistic chance of an unexpected case within the country, or unrest developing among population or staff; phase red is cases admitted to hospitals in the country, potentially causing a shortage of resources. Specific preparedness activities included infection prevention, diagnostics, patient care, staff, and communication. Consensus was reached on the need for the development of a preparedness system and national coordination during threats.ConclusionsIn this study, we developed a standardized system to support institutional preparedness during an increasing threat. Use of this system by both curative healthcare institutions and the (municipal) public health service, could help to effectively communicate and align preparedness activities during future threats of severe infectious diseases.
| S-EPMC6998699 | biostudies-literature
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| S-EPMC9296506 | biostudies-literature
Project description:We highlight the significant progress in developing DNA vaccines during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Specifically, we provide a comprehensive review of the DNA vaccines that have progressed to Phase 2 testing or beyond, including those that have received authorization for use. DNA vaccines have significant advantages with regard to the rapidity of production, thermostability, safety profile, and cellular immune responses. Based on user needs and cost, we compare the three devices used in the SARS-CoV-2 clinical trials. Of the three devices, the GeneDerm suction device offers numerous benefits, particularly for international vaccination campaigns. As such, DNA vaccines represent a promising option for future pandemics.
| S-EPMC10302025 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Dengue fever is one of the significant fatal mosquito-borne viral diseases and is considered to be a worldwide problem. Aedes mosquito is responsible for transmitting various serotypes of dengue viruses to humans. Dengue incidence has developed prominently throughout the world in the last ten years. The exact number of dengue cases is underestimated, whereas plenty of cases are misdiagnosed as alternative febrile sicknesses. There is an estimation that about 390 million dengue cases occur annually. Dengue fever encompasses a wide range of clinical presentations, usually with undefinable clinical progression and outcome. The diagnosis of dengue depends on serology tests, molecular diagnostic methods, and antigen detection tests. The therapeutic approach relies completely on supplemental drugs, which is far from the real approach. Vaccines for dengue disease are in various stages of development. The commercial formulation Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV) is accessible and developed by Sanofi Pasteur. The vaccine candidate Dengvaxia was inefficient in liberating a stabilized immune reaction toward different serotypes (1-4) of dengue fever. Numerous promising vaccine candidates are now being developed in preclinical and clinical stages even though different serotypes of DENV exist that worsen the situation for a vaccine to be equally effective for all serotypes. Thus, the development of an efficient dengue fever vaccine candidate requires time. Effective dengue fever management can be a multidisciplinary challenge, involving international cooperation from diverse perspectives and expertise to resolve this global concern.
| S-EPMC9697487 | biostudies-literature
Project description:IntroductionAs the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated, the complexity of factors involved in the emergence of health threats requires a holistic One Health (OH) approach to enhance the effectiveness of prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR) strategies. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review to explore how the OH approach has been adopted in the context of PPR strategies to health threats, and the challenges and benefits deriving from its integration.MethodsWe defined the research questions and a strategy to guide the peer-reviewed and grey literature search to identify relevant articles and documents (identification). We assessed them for eligibility according to predefined criteria (screening) and finally included the ones that answered the research questions (inclusion). We performed a descriptive and thematic analysis of the results.ResultsA total of 138 records were included in the review (57 from the peer-reviewed literature and 81 from the grey literature). The OH approach was mainly adopted in prevention strategies, particularly within the governance area. Human and animal health were the most integrated disciplines in the OH approach, while environmental and social sciences were the less integrated. The most targeted threats were antimicrobial resistance and zoonoses, with the African region being the most represented. Conducive factors for the adoption of OH PPR strategies were identified in resolutions and guidance emanating from international organisations.DiscussionThe global governance of OH should utilise conducive factors, such as international resolutions and guidance, to enhance the adoption of multisectoral and multi-actor PPR strategies, that focus on national and international priorities and neglected threats, such as environmental hazards and pandemic risk. Integrated frameworks and metrics for the implementation and evaluation of OH PPR strategies need to be consolidated to contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the adoption of the OH approach.
| S-EPMC10425384 | biostudies-literature
Project description:IntroductionIn today's societies, the threats caused by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear accidents, whether accidental or intentional, have become a great concern. Acquiring knowledge about how to respond to the management of these incidents and the complications caused by them in order to preserve societies and ensure stability is essential. Due to the fact that hospitals play an important role in dealing with the victims of biological threats, this study was conducted with the aim of auditing the preparedness of selected military Hospital in facing biological threats in 2023-2024.MethodsThis applied research was conducted with the participatory action research method in all departments of selected military Hospital during one year from July 2023 to July 2024. The level of biological preparedness of the hospital was investigated using the hospital's preparedness tool in biological events with 147 items in 8 main dimensions and 20 sub-dimensions, and the weak areas of the hospital (9 areas) were identified. Then, in the hospital audit cycle, using the FOCUS-PDCA model, a program to improve work processes and improve the biological preparedness of different departments of the hospital in the face of accidents and disasters was implemented. The level of biological preparedness of the hospital before and after the implementation of the change was compared and analyzed using SPSS. version 22 software.ResultsThe preparedness in the studied hospital in facing biological threats before the change was 196 out of 294 and the hospital's biological preparedness percentage was 66.66%, which was in the average range, and after the change, the preparedness score reached 228 and the hospital's preparedness percentage was 77.55%, which was in the range Well classified. In 9 fields where the level of biological preparedness was moderate and weak, the highest preparedness was created in the field of employees and volunteers with 86.36% and the lowest preparedness was related to the field of corpse management with 50%.ConclusionConsidering the impact of training in improving the hospital's preparedness program in the face of biological threats, it is suggested that other medical centers include audits in their work plan.
| S-EPMC11654130 | biostudies-literature
Project description:IntroductionPublic health emergency preparedness requires capacities and capabilities to respond to a diverse range of health threats. A key objective of Ireland's recent Health Protection Strategy is to enable preparedness, prevention, early detection and optimal response to health threats from all-hazards. We aimed to identify priority areas for inclusion in an evidence-based health threats preparedness framework, using lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, to inform a national health threats strategy and a strengthened emerging health threats function for Ireland.MethodsWe conducted a narrative literature review to inform the health threats preparedness framework development. We carried out literature searches in two phases, from 2017 to 2022, followed by an updated search covering 2022-2024, to ensure all relevant, recent literature was captured. We used a data extraction tool to collate priority areas reported.ResultsOverarching priorities for health threats preparedness are rapid decision-making, an outcomes-based, and ethical approach. Health threats preparedness should include a risk-based, all-hazards, One Health approach, aligned with legislation. Multisectoral partnerships, collaboration and communication nationally and internationally are key, alongside clear governance structures and monitoring and evaluation. Adequate resources are required to operationalize effective and sustainable preparedness. Public health leadership must be to the fore.ConclusionAn effective health threats preparedness approach is legislatively mandated for European Member States. This evidence review highlights priority areas for a comprehensive health threats preparedness framework. This framework supports the development of a strengthened emerging health threats function in Ireland and may inform other Member States' preparedness.
| S-EPMC11841503 | biostudies-literature