Disease surveillance is the continuous, systematic collection and analysis of health data to monitor the spread of diseases. This process helps public health officials identify outbreaks, track disease trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions. By gathering information from hospitals, laboratories, and other sources, surveillance systems can provide timely alerts about potential health threats.
Effective disease surveillance relies on various tools and technologies, including epidemiology and data analytics. These methods enable health authorities to respond quickly to emerging diseases, such as COVID-19, and implement strategies to protect public health. Ultimately, disease surveillance plays a crucial role in preventing and controlling infectious diseases.