Guideline for Preparedness of the Operation Team for Surveillance, Investigation, Prevention and Control of Severe Dangerous Communicable Diseases in Border Areas of Tak Province

Abstract

This study aimed to develop guidelines for preparedness of the operation team for surveillance,
investigation, prevention and control of severe dangerous communicable diseases in border areas of
Tak province. The study comprised 3 processes. First, we reviewed management of the operation team
for surveillance, investigation, prevention and control of the past COVID-19 in border areas of Tak
province by reviews of related documents and group discussion; second, we developed the guidelines by the
experienced personnel in Tak provincial health office (PHO) and outside experts; and third, we
evaluated and improved the guidelines by asking the opinions and suggestions about them among the
health personnel involving in the operation teams in border districts and Tak PHO. The guidelines
included preparedness of the team personnel, budget and related materials, processes of the operation,
monitoring and evaluation of the team work. Based on the implementation guidelines, the team personnel
should be trained both in the class and in the field. The equipment and materials for disease prevention
and control should be prepared sufficiently and promptly for use through effective stockpiling by the
responsible personnel. Management by one big team may be appropriate for the same cluster of patients
and a small team for each scattered patient. When the dangerous communicable disease occurred in the
world, particularly in nearby country, the situation awareness team should immediately start surveillance
and disseminate data throughout the border areas. Standards for risk categories among close contacts of
the patient is useful for management during outbreak investigation and measures for disease prevention
and control should follow the national guidelines. It is essential to conduct continuous monitoring of the
team work. The guidelines evaluated by the health personnel of the operation teams in border districts
and Tak PHO revealed high appropriateness, feasibility and usefulness. However, these guidelines may
be modified for use according to changes in area context, disease transmission and spread in the future.