Effectiveness of Data Collection and Information Transmission Process for Disease Notification in Anambra State; Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Background: Disease surveillance and notification (DSN) has been shown to be weak in Nigeria; thus; its inability to promptly detect and control epidemics.Objective: To examine the completeness and timeliness of data collection and information transmission process for DSN in the Anambra state.Materials and Methods: The study was of cross-sectional design and employed the multistage sampling method to select 270 health workers who are involved in DSN in Anambra state. Data were collected by a mix method of interviewer administered questionnaire and observational checklist preceded by key informant interviews and desk review.Results: One hundred (43.9) health workers reported regular supply of Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) forms; 25 and 16.2 reported it was irregular and usually out of stock; respectively. Most facilities (81.5) were the least correct; while out-patient register (88.9) was the most correct. Only 10.0 of health facilities submitted completed forms 5 days after completion; 88.9 of them submitted completed IDSR002 forms within 2 days of completion; while the remainder was submitted 4 days later.Conclusion: The health workers were not operating the DSN system in the State to optimal functionality. Recommendations were therefore made for the periodic training-retraining of health personnel on DSN; improved funding; provision of logistics; improved supervision; and feedback of information