How infected is Gujarat: Comparison of selected infectious disease rates with India

Abstract

Background: The infectious disease profile of India is changing due to increased human environmental interactions, urbanisation and climate change. There are also predictions of explosive growth in infectious and zoonotic diseases. The Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP) was implemented in Gujarat in 2004. Aims: We aimed to analyse IDSP data on seven laboratory confirmed infectious diseases in the state of Gujarat, India. Methods: The IDSP data was analysed and compared this to the National Health Profile data during the same period and other literature on temporal and spatial trends from 2005 to 2011. We chose seven laboratory confirmed infectious diseases, Enteric fever, Cholera, Hepatitis, Dengue, Chikungunya, Measles and Diphtheria in the state as well designed vertical programs already exist for other diseases. Statistical and GIS analysis was done using appropriate software. Ethical clearence was obtained from the IRB. Results: Our analysis shows that the existing surveillance system in the state is predominantly reporting urban cases. There are wide variations among reported cases within the state with reports of Enteric fever and Measles being less than half of the national average, while Cholera, Viral Hepatitis and Dengue being nearly double. We found some limitations in the IDSP system with regard to the number of reporting units and cases in the background of a mixed health system with multiplicity of treatment providers and payment mechanisms. Conclusions: Despite these limitations IDSP can be strengthened into a comprehensive surveillance system capable of tackling the challenge of reversing the endemicity of these diseases and preventing the emergence of others.