Evaluating Senegal's COVID-19 Surveillance System for Early Detection and Response: Lessons from the Keur Massar District, March 03, 2020 to May 31, 2022

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of strong surveillance systems in detecting and responding to public health threats. We sought to evaluate attributes of Keur Massar district's existing COVID-19 surveillance system. Method A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2022; desk review covered data collected from March 03, 2020 to May 31, 2022 in 18 health posts. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire completed during a face-to-face interview and a desk review of surveillance data gathered from different notification platforms (Excel, ODK, DHIS2 aggregated, and tracker). Study was conducted in Keur Massar department, in the Dakar region. We conducted face-to-face interviews with 18 nurses in June 2022. We utilized a standardized, semi-structured questionnaire adapted from CDC guidelines for surveillance evaluation. Results Most responders were well-trained and equipped for COVID-19 surveillance. However, a lack of available guidance manuals during the pandemic impacted data quality. While no cases were reported through the DHIS2 aggregated platform, 1327 PCR-positive SARS-CoV-2 cases were reported through the national Excel sheet and 278 PCR-positive cases were reported through the COVID-19 DHIS2 tracker during the same period. Detection timeliness varied over time. Use of multiple databases for case notification affected data quality. Thirty-nine percent of responders were engaged in COVID-19 data analysis, indicating a need for improved ownership and involvement at the operational level. Timeliness of case detection varied depending on notification platform. To enhance effectiveness, promoting a comprehensive data collection platform, with adequate means for its full utilization would have been preferable. Conclusion Implementing these measures will fortify the system’s capabilities in mitigating disease spread by improving detection processes and decision-making during future outbreaks. This evaluation provides valuable insights for strengthening the COVID-19 surveillance system in Senegal and in other similar settings.