An Ebola Virus Disease surveillance system was grouped into sub-pillars; first, surveillance included contacts tracing mainly for Ebola prevention and control. Second, surveillance of safe burials for effective case management, social mobilization, community engagement, vaccination and operational support. The third is the surveillance of anthropological studies for diagnostic and laboratory, essential health services, and security.
The rise of the epidemic got effectively monitored through: First, a comprehensive collection and critical analysis of epidemiological data to track Ebola cases. Second, follow of contacts. Third, a clear and precise understanding of the epidemiological links by mapping the outbreak’s spread and identification of the risk factors. In addition, a monitoring framework delivered operational and strategic analysis for an easy follow-up on the response outcomes.
The first step in designing and implementing the Ebola Virus Disease monitoring framework involved defining a set of crucial outcomes or performance indicators to monitor how effective the response was in achieving the results. Four to five sub pillars were defined and measured weekly. The second step involved tracing the operationalization of specific activities through a monitoring system to promote accountability and the level of monitoring. For effective implementation of each activity, different criteria got set in place. For example, some criteria needed to be in place; a system for identifying and tracking contacts, an operational and functional database. In addition, active and functional teams and daily analysis and validation of the contact search from the monitor. Centered on the chosen criteria, a clear and precise algorithm was generated to measure whether each activity was entirely, partially, or not operational. Later, the results got translated to a color-coded visualization. The third step involved a link to the development of electronic tools during the data cycle, from data collection to dissemination of results. Data collection involved: Using ODK technology for KPIs and activities by switching from paper to electronic data capture. This technological innovation significantly impacted timeliness, data quality, better control of collected data, and completeness. Data analysis; Data was analyzed using written scripts through statistical software and software for geographical analysis. Data visualization: Through the Microsoft Power BI, results were visualized, thus enabling real-time availability
Various products were considered to provide an accurate response to some specific information needs of different actors published—Daily; incidents, a daily brief, scorecards and heat maps. Information needs of different actors published weekly involved; key performance indicators and activity evaluations. Every month, an input and output analysis. However, the products offered operation and comprehensive information to decision-makers for adequate strategic planning support.