The recent activation of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) in response to the Covid-19 pandemic marks an important step in dealing with the current health crisis. Initiated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the support of the World Bank in 2004, the IDSP transitioned during the 12th Plan (2012–17) under the National Health Mission with a domestic budget. The program is designed to strengthen and maintain decentralized, laboratory-based, and IT-enabled disease surveillance systems for epidemic prone diseases.
About the Structure of the IDSP
Under the auspices of IDSP, a Central Surveillance Unit (CSU) operates in Delhi, while State Surveillance Units (SSU) are functional at all State/Union Territories (UTs) headquarters, and District Surveillance Units (DSU) are established at all Districts. This level of decentralization ensures a comprehensive and timely response to disease outbreaks.
Objectives of the IDSP
The primary objective of the IDSP is to monitor disease trends by maintaining robust surveillance systems across national, state, and district levels. It also aims to detect and respond to disease outbreaks early through trained Rapid Response Teams (RRTs).
Components of the Program
The IDSP encompasses several key components to achieve its objectives. These include integration and decentralization of surveillance activities through the establishment of surveillance units at various administrative levels. Human resource development is another critical aspect, focusing on training medical and paramedical staff on principles of disease surveillance.
Further, the IDSP leverages information communication technology for data collection, collation, analysis, and dissemination. The initiative also includes strengthening public health laboratories and facilitating inter-sectoral coordination for zoonotic diseases.
Disease Control through the IDSP
One of the most effective ways the IDSP aids in disease control is through weekly data collection on epidemic prone diseases. This data provides insights into disease trends and their seasonality. The information is collected through three specified reporting formats – “S” for suspected cases, “P” for presumptive cases, and “L” for laboratory-confirmed cases. This information is filled out by health workers, clinicians, and laboratory staff.
When there’s a spike in illnesses in any area, the RRT investigates to diagnose and control the outbreak. This system allows for quick detection and containment of disease outbreaks, which is vital in preventing widespread contagion.
The IDSP Portal
The IDSP portal serves as a centralized platform with facilities for data entry, reporting outbreaks, data analysis, and viewing reports. Additionally, it offers training modules and resources related to disease surveillance, making it a comprehensive tool for managing and responding to diseases efficiently and effectively.
In these unprecedented times, systems like the IDSP are crucial in controlling the spread of diseases and ensuring public health safety. Their role in managing the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic underscores their significance in healthcare and preventive medicine.
