Reflecting on prediction strategies for epidemics

Abstract

Successful management of epidemic response depends on the development of preventive and preparedness strategies, surveillance, and interventions.Because treatment or pharmaceutical interventions are typically limited early in an epidemic, nonpharmaceutical interventions can be effective in reducing severe outcomes.Pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical interventions have the ability to reduce the impact of an epidemic if they are implemented efficiently and effectively, with appropriate targeting and prioritization (eg, considering age, underlying health conditions, or access to care) and with limited resources.The potential long-term health impact of epidemics for high-risk populations, for example, those with chronic respiratory diseases, further highlights the importance of developing and implementing prevention, preparedness, and intervention strategies.

Pandemic Management: Health Data and Public Health Surveillance

“…Among all types of required data for managing a pandemic, we focus on Human Health Data (HHD) which includes demographics, mortality rates, potential causes, general health records and immunization coverage levels. To further enhance the management process we can use human syndromic data (e.g., vital signs) [2]. Prevention and planning are more important in ensuring public health safety during pandemics [3] and neglecting them results in failing response actions.…”