The West Nile virus (WNV) is a flavivirus spread by arthropods that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Asymptomatic influenza, mild febrile syndrome (WNV fever), and neuroinvasive disease are the most common clinical syndromes (Mainali et al., 2011). When the SARS virus spread across the United States in 2003, emergency managers needed to grasp the severity of the situation and, as a result, the depth of preparation for preparedness, response, and relief efforts.
There is a pressing need to establish intervention strategies as WNV’s emergence and spread continue to pose major public health risks worldwide. The first step to effective problem management is its in-depth examination, as real-time data access and analysis are needed for effective modeling and strategic planning (Slattery et al., 2009). Communicating with higher local authorities is critical for enacting the emergency health prevention strategies to provide the first line of response.
The next step is to maximize the early identification of cases and clusters of respiratory infections that could signify a global re-emergence of SARS while minimizing excessive laboratory testing, control measures implementation, and social disruption. At this stage, it is vital to building a data management system that connects clinical, epidemiologic, and laboratory data on SARS for rapid information sharing (SARS, 2019).
Lastly, as a communicable disease director, one must stop the virus from spreading by using infection management procedures and contact tracing immediately established in healthcare facilities. This entails building techniques to inform staff and patients about disease prevention, a response plan, and a consistent decision-making structure. With the timely implementation of these measures, the health department will be able to prevent rapid disease transmission, saving many lives.
References
Mainali, S., Afshani, M., Wood, J. B., & Levin, M. C. (2011). The natural history of west Nile virus infection presenting with west Nile virus meningoencephalitis in a man with a prolonged illness: A case report. Journal of Medical Case Reports, 5(1).
SARS | core guidance | key measures for preparedness and response. (2019). CDC.
Slattery, C., Syvertson, R., & Krill, S. (2009). The eight step training model: Improving disaster management leadership. Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, 6(1).