Department of Defense Global Emerging Infections Surveillance and Response System (GEIS): an update for 2009
2011

Global Network's Role in Outbreak Response

Sample size: 76 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Matthew C Johns, Ronald L Burke, Kelly G Vest, Mark Fukuda, Julie A Pavlin, Sanjaya K Shrestha, David C Schnabel, Steven Tobias, Jeffrey A Tjaden, Joel M Montgomery, Dennis J Faix, Mark R Duffy, Michael J Cooper, Jose L Sanchez, David L Blazes, the AFHSC-GEIS Outbreak Response Writing Group

Primary Institution: Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center

Hypothesis

How can the AFHSC-GEIS network effectively identify and respond to emerging infectious disease outbreaks?

Conclusion

The AFHSC-GEIS network has significantly improved the identification and response to infectious disease outbreaks globally.

Supporting Evidence

  • The network identified 76 outbreaks in 53 countries during the fiscal year 2009.
  • The most common diseases investigated were influenza, cholera, dengue fever, and hepatitis.
  • 92 percent of outbreaks had specific causative agents identified.
  • The network provided comprehensive support including field, epidemiologic, and laboratory diagnostic assistance.

Takeaway

This study shows how a global network helps find and respond to disease outbreaks quickly, keeping people safe.

Methodology

The study involved analyzing outbreak responses and support activities conducted by the AFHSC-GEIS network over a one-year period.

Limitations

The study may not capture all outbreaks or responses due to the challenges of global disease surveillance.

Participant Demographics

The study involved outbreaks in 53 countries, affecting various populations including military personnel and civilians.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-11-S2-S3

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