Regional System for Epidemiological Surveillance

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The main objective of this RTC is to develop a concrete proposal for a system of regional epidemiological surveillance, based on the information gathered through the following main activities: (i) in-depth analyses of the status of epidemiological surveillance in each member country and potential institutional capacities; (ii) a pilot program for collection and analysis of data in one or two areas of concern; (iii) an analysis of the status of laws regarding data collection and sharing of data; and (iv) a regional conference to address results from activities (i) through (iii) and plan next steps. The specific objectives are as follows: 1.Determination of status of epidemiological surveillance at the national level and possibilities and impediments to the development of a network: To carry out consultancies in six countries regarding the status of epidemiological surveillance in individual countries, and to make recommendations about the systematization of collection of data, and optimal means of advancing a comprehensive network for surveillance. 2.Delineation of standards for a diagnostic laboratory network 3.Piloting of a surveillance system as a means of determining best practices and policies: Development of pilot programs for collection and analysis of data in one or two areas of concern, which may include non-vector borne issues. 4. Analysis of the piloted program 5.Amplification and further elaboration of cooperative agreements between the countries, including an analysis of the status of laws regarding data collection and sharing of data. 6.Promotion of legislative accords in health 7.Development of outlines for accords regarding disease control, including considerations for an avian influenza pandemic, and any related issues related to population migration and illness; 8.Development of a concrete proposal for a system of regional epidemiological surveillance, based on the above information; 9.Formulation of requests for further funding from multilateral Banks regarding basic health infrastructure for surveillance, and prevention and treatment of vector-borne illness.