Epidemiological Tools in Focus: A Comprehensive Assessment of Their Role in Addressing Infectious Disease Challenges in Zambia

Kachinda Wezi; Liywalii Mataa; Mbawe Zulu; Clive Simwanza; Chisanga Arthur; Bruno S.J Phiri; Queen Suzan Midzi; Kelly Chisanga; Leonard Malama Sampa; Humphrey Banda; Masuzyo Ngoma; Ricky Chazya; Mweemba Chijoka; Mubita Jordan; Matildah Mwansa Songe; Paul Fandamu

doi:10.55544/jrasb.2.6.11

Authors

Kachinda Wezi Department of Veterinary Services, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, ZAMBIA. | Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA. | Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA.
Liywalii Mataa The Department of Veterinary Services, National Livestock Epidemiology and Information Centre (NALEIC), Lusaka Province, ZAMBIA.
Mbawe Zulu School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA.
Clive Simwanza Department of Veterinary Services, Mulungushi House, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.
Chisanga Arthur Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA.
Bruno S.J Phiri The Zambia Institute of Animal Health (ZIAH), Mazabuka, ZAMBIA.
Queen Suzan Midzi Center for Research and Development, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA.
Kelly Chisanga Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA.
Leonard Malama Sampa Department of Veterinary Services, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.
Humphrey Banda The Department of Veterinary Services, National Livestock Epidemiology and Information Centre (NALEIC), Lusaka Province, ZAMBIA.
Masuzyo Ngoma Department of Veterinary Services, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.
Ricky Chazya The Department of Veterinary Services, National Livestock Epidemiology and Information Centre (NALEIC), Lusaka Province, ZAMBIA.
Mweemba Chijoka Department of Policy Planning and Information Department (PPID), Mulungushi House, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.
Mubita Jordan Department of Veterinary Services, District Veterinary Office, Mongu, Western Province, ZAMBIA.
Matildah Mwansa Songe Department of Veterinary Services, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.
Paul Fandamu Department of Veterinary Services, Mulungushi House, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55544/jrasb.2.6.11

Keywords:

Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Zambia, Disease Surveillance, Epidemiological Tools, Spatial Analysis, Case-Control Studies, Molecular Epidemiology, Serological Assays, Public Health Decision-Making

Abstract

In the relentless pursuit of mitigating infectious diseases, this investigative study critically examines the nuanced application and effectiveness of epidemiological tools within the context of Zambia. The study meticulously navigates the landscape of infectious diseases in Zambia, considering its unique ecological and socio-economic features. Employing a rigorous methodology that integrates primary data from epidemiological reports, field observations, and laboratory analyses with insights from diverse scientific literature, the study investigates the types and applications of epidemiological tools such as spatial analysis, case-control studies, molecular epidemiology, and serological assays. Unfolding the challenges posed by resource constraints, data reliability issues, and the dynamic nature of infectious diseases in Zambia, the study offers a comprehensive assessment that extends to the implications of these tools for informed public health decision-making. This scholarly inquiry concludes by affirming the significance of ongoing refinement and adaptation of epidemiological tools, emphasizing their pivotal role in addressing infectious disease challenges within Zambia and advocating for their continued enhancement on the global public health stage.

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