Outbreak Toolkit

Outbreak Toolkit

Providing the tools to investigate disease outbreaks, collect data and guide response activities

WHO/S. Bashir
COVID-19: Pakistan Dr Muhammad Asif and Shan Gill in an ambulance on surveillance while they work as part of a COVID-19 rapid response unit in a commercial area of Islamabad, Pakistan.
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How to use the Toolbox

Get basic information on the suspected disease from key reference documents, such as
  • Disease fact sheets
  • Disease information page, with links to technical documents, reports, guidelines, WHO position papers, press releases and updated news
  • WHO outbreak response guidelines (if available)
Develop the case definition
  • Find updated case definitions validated by WHO expert groups
  • Adapt the case definition – include persons, time and place boundaries
  • Adapt the medical signs to fit with the local capacities
Organise the data collection with tools
  • Download case reporting form(s) when available
  • Construct your line list
  • Learn if the disease-specific software dedicated to case-based data collection is available and where to find it
Confirm the outbreak with a laboratory
Read the updated guidance for:
  • Specimen collection
  • Storage conditions and shipment procedures
  • Laboratory testing
Learn about response tools and resources
  • Support national and sub-national authorities for effective management of outbreak

 

Watch online training on the latest specific knowledge
  • Access online training sessions to stay updated on the specific knowledge related to the prevention, detection, and management of each disease.
Find other resources
  • Explore additional resources for comprehensive information on outbreak investigation and disease management.