The Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system has witnessed substantial progress in Balochistan since its implementation in 2019. The appointment of dedicated Surveillance Officers in each district and capacity-building initiatives by the UKHSA International Health Regulation Strengthening Project (IHR-SP) has significantly accelerated its adoption. As a result, IDSR compliance has steadily improved, highlighting its crucial role in public health management.

Recognising the significance of IDSR, Pak Oman Hospital, a tertiary care facility in the remote Tehsil of Gwadar, has taken the initiative to join the IDSR network. This was the first time a tertiary care facility had requested to join IDSR in Balochistan. The hospital management requested UKHSA IHR-SP Health Advisor stationed in Balochistan to train their staff on IDSR procedures and protocols. Following discussions with the Director of Public Health and the UKHSA IHR-SP team, the groundbreaking, inaugural three-day training session on IDSR took place in Karachi from 10-12September 2024. 

The training programme covered several modules - Introduction to IHR and IDSR, Public Health Surveillance, Outbreak Investigation, Multi-sector Outbreak Response Planning, Public Health Laboratories and Lab Networks, Priority Infectious Disease Case Definitions, and Disease Data Flow onto DHIS2 and Risk Assessment and Communication Strategies.

To enhance understanding, multiple case scenarios were utilised to illustrate practical applications of the concepts. Additionally, a hands-on session was conducted to provide participants with practical experience in entering disease data into DHIS2, facilitating the establishment of digital disease data flow.

By undertaking this training, Pak Oman Hospital aims to ensure accurate and timely data collection and reporting, contributing to the overall effectiveness of disease surveillance in the region. It demonstrates their commitment to using IDSR as a tool for improving healthcare services and protecting public health and underscores the province’s determination to improve its healthcare system and enhance disease surveillance capabilities.

Following the success of IDSR implementation in Pak Oman hospitals, the Teaching Hospital of Turbat and Tertiary Care Hospital Pishin have taken proactive steps to join the initiative. These hospitals are seeking guidance from the UKHSA IHR SP Balochistan  Health Advisor on IDSR implementation and how to effectively contribute their data to the system.

This positive development is a testament to the growing recognition of IDSR importance in enhancing healthcare services and protecting public health. By embracing IDSR, these hospitals are demonstrating their commitment to evidence-based decision-making and improving disease surveillance capabilities in Balochistan.