Pathways to strengthening the epidemic intelligence workforce
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Tornimbene, Barbara
Leiva Rioja, Zoila Beatriz
Aderinola, Olaolu
Cucunubá, Zulma M
González-Uribe, Catalina
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
The evolving landscape of public health surveillance demands a proficient and diverse workforce adept in data science and analysis. This report summarises discussions from the third session of the WHO Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence Innovation Forum, focusing on workforce readiness and technological advancements in epidemic intelligence. The forum emphasizes the necessity of multidisciplinary surveillance teams equipped with advanced data skills. Digital tools play a transformative role in data collection and analysis, enabling real-time tracking, integration, and interpretation of diverse data sources. However, effective surveillance relies on inclusive representation and skill development. Collaborative surveillance and interdisciplinary training programs were emphasized as critical pathways to enhance workforce capacity, decision-making, and equity in public health. Case studies from Nigeria, Korea, the UK, and Colombia showcase the role of digital tools and contextual expertise in addressing surveillance gaps. Sustained institutional support, cross-sector partnerships, and investments in data literacy and workforce development are pivotal for creating resilient and inclusive public health systems.
Date Issued
2025-02-28
Date Acceptance
2025-02-01
Citation
BMC Proceedings, 2025, 19 (S4)
ISSN
1753-6561
Publisher
BMC
Journal / Book Title
BMC Proceedings
Volume
19
Issue
S4
Copyright Statement
© The Author(s) 2025, corrected publication 2025. Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
License URL
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
4
Date Publish Online
2025-02-28