COMPLIANCE WITH EPIDEMIC-PRONE DISEASE SUREVEILLANCE AND RESPONSE GUIDELINES AMONG SURVEILLANCE UNITS IN SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF OYO STATE

Abstract

The prevention, control and reduction of mortality from epidemics are dependent on an effective surveillance system. Epidemic-prone diseases continue to occur with increased frequency in epidemic proportions and produce the highest case fatality rate in Nigeria. Surveillance has been recognized to be weak in Nigeria. This study is aimed at assessing compliance with the surveillance and response guidelines for epidemic-prone diseases among surveillance units in Oyo state. A cross-sectional study was conducted assessing the performance of the core surveillance activities for epidemic-prone diseases as stipulated by the National Technical Guideline for Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response. Data was obtained by records review, checklists and questionnaires that sought information on socio-demographics, knowledge on disease surveillance, core surveillance activities and support functions from all surveillance units. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square and multiple logistic regression at p=0.05 on SPSS version 20. Majority of the surveillance units (82.4%) had a reporting practice. However. 6 months and 1 year compliance with the monthly reporting guideline were 77.4% and 65.8% respectively. At the health facility level, utilization of standard case definition was 25.9%, laboratory case confirmation was 85.7%, accurate case records ·was 95.2%, and analysis of surveillance data was 2.6%. At the local government level, analysis of surveillance data was 77.78%, epidemic preparedness was weak while surveillance support were adequate. In a multiple logistic regression model, predictors for compliance with monthly reporting guideline for 6 months were training (OR=7.917; Cl=1.653 - 37.919), knowledge on surveillance data flow pathway (OR=4.804; CI=l.636 - 14.104), adequacy of funds (OR=27.805; CI=7.683 - 100.6) and 21-30 years of service (OR=6.412; Cl=l.357 - 30.309). Predictors for 1 year reporting compliance were training (OR=5.668; Cl=2.040 - 15.753) and adequacy of funds (OR=3.932; CI=1.820 - 8.497). Local and State governments need to ensure the provision of continuous training and resources to surveillance workers to achieve effective disease control.