Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Review of current problems and shortcomings in the Tanzanian animal health information system with suggestions on improvement.
- Journal:
- The Onderstepoort journal of veterinary research
- Year:
- 2002
- Authors:
- Kivaria, F M & Kapaga, A M
- Affiliation:
- Animal Diseases Research Institute
Plain-English summary
In Tanzania, livestock diseases are a big concern for veterinary authorities, especially since international trade agreements have made animal health even more important. There is a strong push to improve animal health as part of efforts to reduce poverty. However, the current system for tracking and reporting animal diseases has two main issues: it doesn't accurately show the health status of animals, and it struggles to provide useful information about where diseases are occurring. To fix this, experts suggest using better methods to actively monitor animal health and introducing technology to map disease information. These changes should help improve how animal health information is managed and reported.
Abstract
Livestock diseases have always been the focus of the Tanzanian Veterinary Authorities. However, they have become more important since the formation of the World Trade Organisation and subsequent implementation of the various multilateral agreements on trade. There is also a strong political desire to improve the animal health status as part of poverty alleviation strategies. As a result there is a need to develop better systems for investigating and reporting of animal diseases. In order to follow the OIE pathway and to obtain a disease free status, reliable evidence of freedom from particular diseases is becoming an issue of major interest. Assessment of the Tanzanian animal health information system revealed two major problems; firstly, the absence of disease information that accurately reflects the health status of the source population, and secondly, an inefficient information management system which is unable to provide useful information on the spatial component of animal health. A strategic approach is proposed that involves the collection of animal health information using active surveillance techniques and the introduction of a geographic information system. This approach should improve the management and reporting of animal health information.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12625383/