Knowledge, Practices, and Determinants of Epidemiological Surveillance for Diseases with Epidemic Potential among Health Personnel in the West Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Epidemiological surveillance is essential for preventing and controlling diseases with epidemic potential (DEP). Despite its importance, persistent gaps in human resources, knowledge, and the availability of surveillance tools limit system performance. Aim: This study aimed to assess the needs for interventions required to strengthen epidemiological surveillance in health facilities within the West Region of Cameroon. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in seven health districts in the West Region of Cameroon from August 2022 to July 2023. Data was collected from 170 health personnel from outpatient and emergency departments using a face-to-face questionnaire and an observation grid. Participants were selected through a combination of purposive and simple random sampling. The study evaluated the rates of detection, notification, and investigation of DEP, the availability of surveillance tools, and the training needs of staff. Results: The study found that the detection, notification, and investigation rates for DEPs were 84.72%, 61.11%, and 76.54%, respectively. Staff knowledge were 78.2% for detection, 57.1% for notification, and 47.1% for case investigation. Most participants (74.7%) had received training in epidemiological surveillance. However, several essential tools were insufficiently available: 36.7% of facilities lacked notification forms, 45.9% lacked investigation forms, 52.5% had no monitoring or summary sheets, and 73.7% lacked generators. The main needs identified included training on case definitions (24.1%) and the detection and identification of contact cases (22.9%). Conclusion: The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge, practices, and resource availability for effective epidemiological surveillance in the West Region of Cameroon. While detection and investigation rates were relatively high, there were remarkable deficiencies in staff knowledge and the availability of essential tools. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including enhanced training and improved resource distribution, to strengthen the region's epidemiological surveillance system.