Real-time surveillance of infectious diseases and other health conditions during the arbaeenia mass gathering, Kerbala, Iraq, 2016: a teaching case-study

Abstract

The Arbaeenia mass gathering (MG) is considered the largest religious MG in Iraq and occurs annually in the city of Kerbala with participation of several million visitors from different countries and most Iraqi provinces. This MG places attendants at a significant risk for contracting communicable diseases, sustaining injuries, and facing complications of health problems related to chronic diseases due to overcrowding and intensive physical activity. The goal of this case study to build the capacity of trainees on how to improve the surveillance systems for infectious diseases and other health conditions during MGs. This case study is based on the implementation of a real time surveillance system for illness and health problems affecting people attending the Arbaeenia MG in 2016 which enabled the surveillance team in Iraq to rapidly detect and respond to disease outbreaks. This case study teaches students how MGs offer an opportunity to improve existing surveillance systems or establish new ones. The case study is designed for training Novice field epidemiology trainees. The case study can be administered in 3-4 hours. Used as adjunct training material, the case study provides the trainees with competencies to use real time technology for surveillance data collection, analysis and timely response during the event.