Evaluation of the weekly disease surveillance system in Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe, 2018

Abstract

Background: The weekly disease surveillance system (WDSS) acts as an early warning of potential threats to public health. In 2018, the reporting rates in Matabeleland South Province were below the 100% target, with overall timeliness of 61.7% and completeness of 67.3%. Low reporting rates may imply late detection of outbreaks in the province. The study was conducted to evaluate the WDSS in Matabeleland South province. Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross sectional-study using updated Centers for Disease Control guidelines for evaluating public health surveillance systems. Interviewer administered questionnaires and key informant interviews were used to collect data from the health workers. Resource availability was assessed using checklists. Epi Info 7TM was used to generate frequencies, medians and proportions. Results: Fifty health workers were interviewed, 28 (56%) of whom were females. The majority of the health workers 41 (82%) were nurses. Thirty-two (64%) respondents knew the timelines for submission of data to the next level whilst only 16 (32%) knew the objectives of the WDSS. Eight (16%) respondents were trained on operating the WDSS. Forty-two (84%) respondents reported analyzing the information of the WDSS and willingness to continue participating in the WDSS was indicated by 46 (92%) respondents. Six (85%) health facilities indicated experiencing problems with the District Health Information System. Conclusion: The WDSS was found to be simple, acceptable and flexible. However, it was unstable and untimely. We recommend training of health care workers on the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response in the province.