Pandemic Preparedness: Strengthening India's Disease Surveillance Systems

The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme reported 1,862 disease outbreaks last year, with Kerala recording the highest number. The Union Ministry of Health is enhancing state capabilities against pandemics through better disease surveillance, data analytics, and laboratory strengthening. Measures include the Integrated Health Information Platform for real-time data and a network of Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories.

A total of 1,862 disease outbreaks were reported in 2022 through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, with Kerala, Karnataka, and Maharashtra seeing the highest numbers, according to information shared in the Lok Sabha on Friday.

Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel emphasized that pandemic prevention and preparedness is a shared global responsibility. She noted that the Union Ministry of Health supports states and UTs to boost their capabilities.

The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) has been strengthened to include real-time data reporting and the use of advanced data analytics, accessible at all levels via the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). This system, launched in April 2021, tracks over 33 health conditions and provides a single platform for public health surveillance.

At present, all 36 states and UTs have migrated to the IHIP portal, enhancing their disease surveillance activities. In terms of laboratory capabilities, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has established over 150 Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories nationwide. Additionally, new regional laboratories are being set up in several cities to ensure timely diagnosis of pathogens.

The IDSP is mandated with both surveillance and response to communicable disease outbreaks. Rapid Response Teams at various levels investigate outbreaks and recommend preventive measures. They also perform media scanning for event-based surveillance. Further efforts include the establishment of the National Institute for One Health in Nagpur to advance research across multiple health sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)