The European Diphtheria Surveillance Network (ESDN) a strong model to combat a rare disease and use resources efficiently, share knowledge openly, and give support effectively

Neal, Shona; Efstratiou, Androulla; The European Diphtheria Surveillance Network, EDSN

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.18/1338

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Authors

Neal, Shona

Efstratiou, Androulla

The European Diphtheria Surveillance Network, EDSN

Abstract(s)

BACKGROUND: As diphtheria is uncommon within the EU, complacency and minimal awareness is constantly observed. However, diphtheria is still seen sporadically in many EU countries and recent outbreaks have occurred worldwide. From the success of the EU-funded Diphtheria Network (DIPNET), the European Diphtheria Surveillance Network (EDSN) was established in 2010 under the auspices of ECDC, and continues to integrate epidemiologists and microbiologists. Microbiological activities have been tendered to the Health Protection Agency and managed as work packages; coordination; diagnostic external quality assurance (EQA) scheme; serology EQA; training workshops and molecular typing. The main objective is to strengthen laboratory diagnosis to ensure accurate and comparative diphtheria surveillance across Europe. METHODS: Thirty laboratory experts were nominated from the EU and EEA countries. Since February 2010, there have been two network meetings, two diagnostic EQAs, one serology EQA and two training workshops. RESULTS: The first diagnostic EQA generated unacceptable identification and toxigenicity reports of 14% and 10%, respectively from 26 countries. The two workshops provided the opportunity for non-DIPNET countries and those that performed poorly in the EQA to improve in diphtheria diagnostic methods; good feedback was received from all participants. Preliminary results of the second EQA revealed slight improvements in results where only 8% gave an unacceptable identification and 10% unacceptable toxigenicity reports (24 countries). CONCLUSIONS: All network members agree that EDSN should continue under ECDC, as this continues to provide the infrastructure essential for harmonised and improved public health management for diphtheria across the EU. However, EQA results emphasised that further training and EQA exercises should continue so as to maintain expertise, assess capabilities and aid standardisation for diphtheria diagnostics and ultimately surveillance.

Description

Maria Paula Bajanca Lavado é a microbiologista responsável pela Diphtheria em Portugal e representa Portugal no ECDC no Grupo "The European Diphtheria Surveillance Network (EDSN)".