Enhancing State Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Infectious Diseases
1998
Enhancing State Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Infectious Diseases
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Deborah A. Deppe
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Conclusion
The study highlights various state efforts to improve public health surveillance and response for infectious diseases through enhanced reporting and laboratory capacity.
Supporting Evidence
- Vermont improved disease reporting through new legislation.
- Kansas expanded electronic surveillance for diarrheal diseases.
- New York enhanced rapid reporting of communicable diseases using a secure Intranet.
- Los Angeles used PFGE in outbreak investigations, finding it more effective in health facility outbreaks.
- Washington developed a pilot electronic reporting mechanism to improve timeliness and completeness of disease reports.
- Maine is characterizing hepatitis C prevalence through various data sources.
Takeaway
Different states are working to better track and respond to diseases by using new technology and improving reporting systems.
Methodology
The study involved reviewing existing databases, implementing mandatory laboratory reporting, and conducting surveys.
Limitations
No public health software or implementation package was available, requiring resource-intensive customization.
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