Field epidemiology training program takes swift action as cholera spreads in Tanzania
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by
AFENET
Since mid-December 2023, Tanzania has grappled with a cholera outbreak spreading across eight regions, affecting communities and claiming lives. As of 18 January 2024, the reported cases stood at 490 and 11 fatalities, reflecting a Case Fatality Rate of 2.24%. The most impacted regions are Simiyu (234 cases), Shinyanga (110 cases), and Mwanza (100 cases).
Responding to this public health crisis, the Tanzania Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (TFELTP) has swiftly mobilized residents and graduates to the affected regions. Their primary objective is to bolster local capacity for outbreak response, reinforce surveillance and data collection, provide technical expertise, and enhance community engagement.
Epidemiological Investigations: TFELTP’s dedicated team, comprising residents, graduates, and other public health professionals, has undertaken rigorous epidemiological investigations to comprehend the extent and origins of the cholera outbreak. This comprehensive approach includes:
- Collecting and analyzing data on reported cholera cases, encompassing demographic information, clinical symptoms, and geographical distribution
- Conducting case-control studies to identify the risk factors associated with cholera transmission
- Mapping the affected areas to pinpoint hotspots and trace patterns of transmission
Surveillance Strengthening: The TFELTP team has prioritized reinforcing cholera surveillance in the affected regions through targeted initiatives, such as:
- Training healthcare workers on case identification, reporting, and cholera case management
- Monitoring the quality and completeness of cholera surveillance data to ensure timely and accurate reporting
- Providing orientation to healthcare workers at health facilities on the proper completion of the Cholera Case Investigation Form
- Regularly updating and maintaining the suspected Cholera line list.
- Collaborating with the Public Health Emergency Operations Center team to develop daily situation reports
Risk Communication and Community Engagement: Recognizing the crucial role of community involvement, TFELTP residents, graduates, and other public health professionals are actively engaging with communities to:
- Provide accurate and timely information about cholera prevention, symptoms, and treatment
- Address and dispel misconceptions and rumors related to cholera transmission and control measures
- Promote community participation in cholera prevention and control activities, with an emphasis on adopting safe water and sanitation practices
- TFELTP's multifaceted approach underscores a commitment to comprehensive public health measures aimed at curbing the cholera outbreak and safeguarding the well-being of Tanzanian communities
