Suspected Cholera Outbreak in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, 2022: a teaching case study of laboratory role in outbreaks investigation

¹Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) Afghanistan Country Office, Kabul City, Afghanistan, ²Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program (AFETP), Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, Ministry of Public Health, Afghanistan

^&Corresponding author
Shoaib Naeemi, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) Afghanistan Country Office, Kabul City, Afghanistan

How to use this case study    

Key learning points:

1. Laboratory's role in outbreak investigations: participants will gain insight into how laboratories play a critical role in confirming outbreaks, identifying pathogens, and guiding control measures. They will understand the importance of accurate and timely laboratory results in informing public health decisions.

2. Specimen types and collection: the case study delves into the different types of specimens used in outbreak investigations, with a focus on AWD. Participants will be challenged to discuss on which specimens are most appropriate for diagnosing specific diseases and the significance of sample timing in obtaining reliable results.

3. Specimen collection procedures: FETP residents will be guided through proper specimen collection techniques, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sample integrity to ensure accurate laboratory analysis. They will learn how to minimize contamination risks and ensure representative sampling.

4. Specimen management: this section highlights the significance of proper specimen management, including storage, transportation, and documentation.

5. Laboratory-field collaboration: the case study underscores the importance of effective communication and collaboration between field epidemiologists and laboratory personnel. Participants will learn how to facilitate seamless information exchange and coordination to ensure efficient outbreak response.

6. Real-life application: by examining the AWD outbreak in two villages of the Jalrez District, participants will gain practical insights into the challenges and complexities of real-world outbreak investigations. This context allows for a comprehensive understanding of the concepts discussed.

7. Public Health Decision-Making: through the lens of the AWD outbreak, FETP residents will explore how laboratory results influence public health decisions, from implementing control measures to resource allocation.

Time allotted: 1-2 Hours

Language: English

Groups: 3-5 residents per group

Materials required: pen, pencil, flip chart, calculator, marker, highlighter pen, and personal computer (if available)

Case study material     

• Download the case study student guide;
• Request the case study facilitator guide.

Competing interests     

The authors declare no competing interests.

Acknowledgments     

Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program (AFETP) extend their gratitude to National Diseases Surveillance and Response (NDSR) department of Wardak Provincial Public Health Directorate, Central Public Health Laboratories of Afghanistan under the roof of Monitoring, Evaluation and Health Information System (M&EHIS) General Directorate of Ministry of Public Health for providing data and information of this teaching case study.

References