Emerging Diseases Surveillance in East Africa
Abstract
Since the inception of USAMRU-K in 1969, its activities have centered on the epidemiology, entomology and immunology of the diseases endemic to Kenya, in particular, trypanosomaisis, malaria, leishmaniasis, rift valley fever, and enteric pathogens. Clinical studies to test the safety and efficacy of new drugs and vaccine candidates have also been undertaken primarily at the Kisumu field site. Even though the potential for disease surveillance has been evident, a systematic effort to collect data for the purposes of defining a regional or national action plan was lacking until the inception of GEIS in 2000. During the second year of GEIS work at USAMRU-K, laboratory based diagnostic capability has been improved in the identification of enteric pathogens and determination of antibiotic and antimalarial drug resistance. Efforts to establish a responsive telecommunication network continued with the launching of a USAMRU-K website. This resource would be an essential tool for dissemination of future surveillance data. Additionally, the local personnel trained during this reporting period will greatly improve the chances of establishing a surveillance system for the region.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA398982
Entities
People
- Davey K. Koech
Organizations
- Kenya Medical Research Institute