Strengthening preparedness and response to epidemics in West Africa: a scoping review of strengths, gaps, and challenges (2016-2019)
Introduction: West Africa has seen several epidemics of infectious diseases including the 2014-16 Ebola virus disease epidemic that revealed inadequate national and regional response to epidemics and other health emergencies. We conducted a situational analysis to identify strengths, gaps, and chall...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
African Field Epidemiology Network
2022-11-01
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| Series: | Journal of Interventional Epidemiology and Public Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.afenet-journal.net/content/series/5/2/6/full/ |
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| Summary: | Introduction: West Africa has seen several epidemics of infectious diseases including the 2014-16 Ebola virus disease epidemic that revealed inadequate national and regional response to epidemics and other health emergencies. We conducted a situational analysis to identify strengths, gaps, and challenges in preparedness and response (P&R) capacities in the West African region.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted to identify the strengths and gaps in P&R capacities which were validated through interviews with key stakeholders from all fifteen countries in the Economic Community of West African States. Data were collected from April to August 2018 using a structured questionnaire and interview guide administered to country officials. Data from the scoping review and document verification were analysed under eight major themes drawn from the IHR capacities and triangulated with the interviews.
Results: Response coordination mechanisms existed in all 15 countries as supported by EOCs of which some operated virtually. All countries reported additional criteria to be met for their NPHIs to be fully functional. Only one-third of the countries had plans for generic epidemic preparedness. The study also found over-reliance on donors due to inadequate internal funding for laboratory testing.
Conclusion: This study revealed some strengths and weaknesses that should be targeted for the improvement of P&R capacities and capabilities. Countries need to establish fully functional National Public Health Institutes for ensuring effective coordination. They should also update legislations in support of P&R to ensure rapid and effective response to public health emergencies. |
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| ISSN: | 2664-2824 |