Day 57 – Q 1.What should be the standard operating procedure (SOP) for addressing the outbreak of epidemics?
1. What should be the standard operating procedure (SOP) for addressing the outbreak of epidemics?
महामारी के प्रकोप को संबोधित करने के लिए मानक ऑपरेटिंग प्रक्रिया (एसओपी) क्या होनी चाहिए?
Synopsis:
Standard operating procedure:
A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex routine operations. SOPs aim to achieve efficiency, quality output and uniformity of performance, while reducing miscommunication and failure to comply with industry regulations.
Epidemics:
An epidemic occurs when an infectious disease spreads rapidly to many people. For example, in 2003, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic took the lives of nearly 800 people worldwide.
Outbreak of a disease:
A disease outbreak happens when a disease occurs in greater numbers than expected in a community or region or during a season. An outbreak may occur in one community or even extend to several countries. It can last from days to years. Sometimes a single case of a contagious disease is considered an outbreak. This may be true if it is an unknown disease, is new to a community, or has been absent from a population for a long time. If you observe what you think might be a disease outbreak, report it right away to your health care provider or public health department.
EARLY WARNING SYSTEM:
- This procedure is to ensure that events with the potential to pose a serious public health risk are rapidly and consistently identified.
- This will create awareness among the public through media and other ways.
RAPID RISK ASSESSMENT OF EPIDEMICS:
- Review the initial information provided in the list of events within 24 hours of receipt and carry out a rapid risk assessment using established criteria to determine whether the event is, or has the potential to become, a serious public health risk.
- The systematic rapid risk assessment of triaged events detected through event-based surveillance and those reported through official channels
ACTIVATING PUBLIC HEALTH EVENT RESPONSE:
- The purpose of this procedure is to support countries by strengthening their immediate capacities for a timely and effective public health response in the context of the IHR to mitigate the impact of the outbreak.
- Should take the samples from the people and need to start research as it will help in future response for preventive purpose, can also develop vaccines according to the need.
PROGRESS NEED TO BE EVALUATED TIME TO TIME:
- The officials need to meet once in three months to review progress made in their operations against the epidemics and make appropriate corrective measures as per their observations.
- Take the help of experts in the like AIMS in India as well as if needed some from other countries who has expertise in that area.
- Medical camps and availability of medicines should be prioritised according to the need.
Conclusion:
The methods, policies and procedures for preventing and controlling infectious disease outbreaks and other acute public health events develop and change over time. In order to ensure that these SOPs keep pace with such changes, they are being published electronically with references and links to other procedures and guidelines for those requiring more details. Users of the SOPs are encouraged to share the lessons learned during the application of the procedures for possible incorporation into future revisions of the document. Finally, while the SOPs reflect usual practice, there will be circumstances from time to time that may require an adaptive response based on the professional judgement of the response staff and decision makers.
Best Answer: John Nash
