This abstract has been accepted at the 2024 DHIS2 Annual Conference
Enhancing Disease Surveillance: A Shift from EPIINFO to eIDSR for VPD case-based surveillance reporting in Uganda using DHIS2 Platform
Introduction: In Uganda, switching from the standalone case-based data management (EPIINFO) system to the electronic Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (eIDSR) would significantly improve the availability and timeliness of data from the stage of case notification to taking action By addressing the disconnect between case-based surveillance and notification systems, this change helps to minimize the time it takes to identify, anticipate, and contain outbreaks. The implementation of DHIS2 in Uganda has enhanced the prompt reporting and accessibility of possible cases of measles, rubella, and acute flaccid paralysis (AFP). In November 2022, the Ministry of Health - Immunization program, AFENET Uganda and CDC launched a Growing Expertise in E-Health Knowledge (GEEKS) project, which focuses on customization and adoption of the electronic Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (eIDSR) for case-based reporting. Methodology/Theoretical Framework: For Uganda case-based eIDSR system to compliant with the latest versions of standard case investigation forms, the Measles-Rubella, AFP, NNT and AEFI modules (eCase forms) had to be revised and updated. The revised Uganda eIDSR system received legacy data of AFP (from 2016 to March 2023) and measles (2006 to Aug 2023) that were extracted, transformed, and uploaded from the standalone VPD EPIINFO system. Using both web-based and DHIS2 Android-based data capture apps, with support from WHO a National level team trained all biostatisticians and surveillance focal persons from the 146 districts and health sub-districts in data gathering and analysis of surveillance data using the eIDSR. Results: There have been 214 AFP cases including measles cases that have been reported from 40 districts since the implementation of eIDSR for VPD surveillance in September 2023. A dashboard with the most recent GPEI indicators for polio and other indicators for measles has been made. Compared to 2023, there has been a discernible rise in the reporting rate of cases from districts in 2024 using the eIDSR. Conclusion: The implementation of eIDSR for VPD surveillance demonstrates potential benefits which includes better data availability, improved reporting quality from districts, and improved key indicator visualization. It is anticipated that early use of this tool by healthcare professionals to report suspected instances will lead to timely notification and investigation of suspected cases. This tactical change is an essential first step toward Uganda’s goal of developing a more effective and integrated disease surveillance and response system.
Primary Author: Samuel Ofori Gyasi
Keywords:
GEEKS, eIDSR, EPIINFO, VPD
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