Optimization of Surveillance and Laboratory Technicians in Diphtheria Outbreak Control in Banda Aceh, Aceh

Abstract

Background: Diphtheria is a widespread severe infectious disease that has the potential for epidemics. It was one of the leading causes of childhood death in the prevaccine era. Surveillance data can be used to monitor levels of coverage (target >90%) and disease as a measure of the impact of control programmes. Recent epidemics have highlighted the need for adequate surveillance and epidemic preparedness. This study aimed to examine the optimization of surveillance and laboratory technicians in diphtheria outbreak control in Banda Aceh, Aceh. Subjects and Method: A qualitative study was carried out at 5 community health centers in Banda Aceh, Aceh. The theme of this study was the optimization of surveillance and laboratory technician in diphtheria outbreak control in Banda Aceh, Aceh. The data were collected by in-depth interview. The data obtained were then verified at the city health office in Banda Aceh. Results: There was a lack of surveillance and laboratory personnel in Banda Aceh. Each community health center had only 1 surveillance person. No community health center had trained laboratory staff to collect diphtheria specimen. Banda Aceh city health office had only 1 trained laboratory technician. The lack of personnel hampered diphtheria control management. Conclusion:There is a lack of surveillance and laboratory personnel in Banda Aceh. The lack of personnel hampers diphtheria control management.

Epidemiological Investigation in Diphtheria Control in Banda Aceh, Indonesia

“…The city of Banda Aceh is constrained by the lack of trained laboratory staff for taking diphtheria specimens and the unavailability of laboratory facilities for microbiological examination (Aini and Poncorini, 2019).…”