Assessment of implementation of integrated disease surveillance and response in Akwa Ibom State Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction
Resulting from the problems associated with previous disease surveillance in Nigeria and by extension Africa, Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) was adopted in 1998 for the purpose of strengthening the surveillance system and for efficient use of resources.  Since its commencement, the implementation of the strategy has not been assessed in the State. The purpose of the study was to assess the implementation of IDSR in selected local governments of AkwaIbom State

Materials and Methods
A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out in six Midwife Service Scheme sites in 3 selected LGAs of the State, using interviewer administered questionnaires adapted from the IDSR guideline from January to March 2014. Data was analysed using Microsoft excel.

Results
All the facilities had no laboratory to confirm any of the priority diseases, they all lack reporting tools and the skilled to use them. There was no form of data analysis in all the facilities, only 50% of the facilities had calculator, none has a computer. No standard case definition in all the facilities except for measles and poliomyelitis. All the LGAs had designated officers for IDSR and nonfunctional preparedness committees. Two out of the three LGAs had trend analysis of the facilities in the 12 months preceding the study. Feedback from the State to LGA is verbal

Conclusion
Implementation of IDSR in the State is suboptimal. Health workers need to be specifically trained on IDSR and resources committed for the implementation and monitoring of the strategy, to ensure effective disease control in the State. It is equally paramount that states; capacity on IDSR is strengthened to enable them monitor and evaluate their performance using established indicators