scholarly journals Use of Rapid Online Data Collection during a Large Community Enteric Outbreak in Toronto, Canada

2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne Arthur ◽  
Effie Gournis ◽  
Kaitlin Bradley
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Media Coverage ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Foodborne Illness ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Survey Tool ◽  
Large Community ◽  
Exposed Population ◽  
Stomach Pain

ObjectiveTo describe the use of an online survey tool to rapidly collect data from a large community outbreak of enteric illness in Toronto, Canada.IntroductionIn the early morning of Friday January 20, 2017, Toronto Public Health (TPH) was notified of several reports of acute vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain/cramps among students living in residence at a post-secondary institution in Toronto, Canada. A public health investigation was initiated and it was quickly determined that a large number of students and visitors to the campus were affected. Following considerable media coverage, TPH began receiving an overwhelmingly high volume of reports from ill individuals who lived, visited, or worked at the college campus and had experienced gastrointestinal illness.MethodsGastroBusters – an established online foodborne illness reporting tool was quickly adapted to support the outbreak investigation. GastroBusters was rapidly updated to include a screening question allowing ill individuals connected with the outbreak location to self-identify and report their symptoms, onset dates and times, and food histories to TPH securely online. The necessary updates were developed, tested, and implemented in less than one hour. Ill individuals were directed to the GastroBusters website – tph.to/gastrobusters - by college administrators and through media messaging. Those who were ill and reported to TPH through other methods (e.g., by phone) were interviewed by TPH investigators to collect comparable data, which were entered by staff into an online survey that mirrored the structure of the GastroBusters questions. These two data sets were merged and descriptive analyses were conducted using MS Excel and SAS v9.2.ResultsIn total, 354 reports associated with the outbreak were received by TPH - 232 who self-reported through GastroBusters, and 122 reported through other methods who were interviewed by TPH. Use of GastroBusters allowed ill individuals to report at a time convenient to them - 204 (88%) reports were submitted outside of TPH's business hours. As well, by providing ill individuals a method to self-report, TPH was able to rapidly collect, analyze and interpret data over the weekend while minimizing use of TPH staff resources. A summary report was available on Monday January 23, 2017 by 9:00 am, describing 236 confirmed and probable cases whose data were collected via both online surveys (GastroBusters and TPH data collection tool), between Friday and Sunday evenings. These data supported the hypothesis that the source of illness for the outbreak was likely norovirus; this was later confirmed through laboratory results.ConclusionsThis investigation provides a successful example of how an existing online reporting system for foodborne illness can be used for rapid data collection during a large-scale community enteric outbreak, where the exposed population could not be easily defined and the source of illness was unknown. Advantages of using this approach included: 1) rapid and robust data collection resulting in prompt analysis, and 2) efficient use of public health resources given the volume of reports otherwise processed by a public health investigator. Moreover, the investigation coincided with a weekend when there are fewer staff available and large amounts of overtime costs would have been accrued. TPH is currently developing standards for the use of similar tools in the future.References1. Toronto [Internet]. Toronto: City of Toronto; c1998-2017. GastroBusters; [cited October 2, 2017]. Available from: tph.to/gastrobusters

scholarly journals Perceptions of Rheumatologists on Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis in China

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Miao Chen ◽  
Hua Zhang ◽  
Zhiyong Chen ◽  
Sheng-Ming Dai
Keyword(s):  
Psoriatic Arthritis ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Good Practice ◽  
Diagnostic Delay ◽  
Nationwide Survey ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Full Time ◽  
Survey Tool ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Practice Habits

ObjectiveHigh prevalence of undiagnosed psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and prolonged diagnostic delay are key troubles in the appropriate management of PsA. To analyze the possible causes for this phenomenon, a web-based nationwide survey was conducted to investigate rheumatologists’ perceptions on PsA diagnosis in China.MethodsThe electronic questionnaire consisting of 38 questions were designed by an expert panel and distributed with the online survey tool Sojump, which is a professional online survey platform. The completed questionnaires by real-name rheumatologists were collected.ResultsA total of 1594 valid questionnaires were included. More than half of Chinese rheumatologists reported it was challenging to make a diagnosis of PsA. The four major challenges were “Difficulties in identification of atypical or hidden psoriasis”, “Absence of diagnostic biomarkers”, “No active self-report of history or family history of psoriasis” and “Various musculoskeletal manifestations”. In diagnosing PsA, minor participants had incorrect knowledge of inflammatory arthropathy (13.7%), acute phase reactant (23.8%), and rheumatoid factor (28.7%). There were no significant differences in the knowledge of PsA and practice habits in diagnosing PsA between modern western medicine (WM)- and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-rheumatologists. The part-time rheumatologists were not as good as full-time rheumatologists in diagnosing PsA.ConclusionsAbout three quarters of Chinese rheumatologists are familiar with the elements in PsA diagnosis and have good practice habits in diagnosing PsA. Four main challenges in making PsA diagnosis are revealed. There was no significant difference in the knowledge of PsA between WM- and TCM-rheumatologists.

A Research Experience Collecting Data Online: Advantages and Barriers

2017 ◽  
Vol 23 (4) ◽  
pp. 266-270 ◽  
Author(s):  
Malena Jones
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Research Experience ◽  
Nurse Faculty ◽  
Online Data ◽  
Survey Tool ◽  
Survey Response Rate ◽  
Data Collection Process ◽  
Online Data Collection ◽  
Survey Responses

This article details the use of an online survey tool to obtain information from nurse faculty, including the data collection process, the survey responses by nurse faculty, and the advantages and barriers of online data collection. The survey response rate indicates that online data collection is a valuable tool for nurse researchers.

scholarly journals Data collection for outbreak investigations: process for defining a minimal data set using a Delphi approach

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne Perrocheau ◽  
Hannah Brindle ◽  
Chrissy Roberts ◽  
Srinivas Murthy ◽  
Sharmila Shetty ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Electronic Device ◽  
Subsequent Development ◽  
Delphi Process ◽  
Knowledge Network ◽  
Outbreak Investigation ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Delphi Approach

Abstract Background Timely but accurate data collection is needed during health emergencies to inform public health responses. Often, an abundance of data is collected but not used. When outbreaks and other health events occur in remote and complex settings, operatives on the ground are often required to cover multiple tasks whilst working with limited resources. Tools that facilitate the collection of essential data during the early investigations of a potential public health event can support effective public health decision-making. We proposed to define the minimum set of quantitative information to collect whilst using electronic device or not. Here we present the process used to select the minimum information required to describe an outbreak of any cause during its initial stages and occurring in remote settings. Methods A working group of epidemiologists took part in two rounds of a Delphi process to categorise the variables to be included in an initial outbreak investigation form. This took place between January–June 2019 using an online survey. Results At a threshold of 75 %, consensus was reached for nineteen (23.2%) variables which were all classified as ‘essential’. This increased to twenty-six (31.7%) variables when the threshold was reduced to 60% with all but one variable classified as ‘essential’. Twenty-five of these variables were included in the ‘Time zero initial case investigation’ ‘(T0)’ form which was shared with the members of the Rapid Response Team Knowledge Network for field testing and feedback. The form has been readily available online by WHO since September 2019. Conclusion This is the first known Delphi process used to determine the minimum variables needed for an outbreak investigation. The subsequent development of the T0 form should help to improve the efficiency and standardisation of data collection during emergencies and ultimately the quality of the data collected during field investigation.

scholarly journals Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Health Personnel in Responding to the COVID-19 Outbreak in Indonesia

2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dyah Suryani ◽  
Suyitno Suyitno ◽  
Maretalinia Maretalinia ◽  
Elvi Juliansyah ◽  
Vernonia Yora Saki ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Health Personnel ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Health Centers ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Attitudes And Practices ◽  
Knowledge Attitudes And Practices

The COVID-19 outbreak, which originated in China, has spread to all countries worldwide, including Indonesia. Until July 2021, the growth rate has been gradually increasing, and cases have been found in all 34 provinces of Indonesia. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of health personnel in public health centers towards the COVID-19 outbreak in Indonesia using online self-report questionnaires. A total of 440 respondents contributed to this online survey. The level of average KAP were 7.7 out of 10.0, 14.3 out of 15.0, and 31.9 out of 36.0, respectively. There was no significant association between respondents’ characteristics (sex, marital status, and age) and their KAP, which showed p > 0.05 for all variables. It can be concluded that the level of KAP was good even though the respondents’ characteristics had no association with KAP. 

Corporate Psychopaths: implications for organizational health and well-being

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
M D'Souza ◽  
D Oliveira
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Organizational Health ◽  
The Self ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Upper Echelon ◽  
Corporate Psychopaths ◽  
Administrative Area ◽  
Health And Well Being

Abstract Studies on Psychopathy in corporate settings and its toxic effects at the workplace are of the utmost importance. Corporate psychopaths reach upper echelon positions, and demonstrate egocentrism, lack of guilt or remorse; they influence those who are around them to achieve their own goals. In this regard, this study aims to discuss the implications of leaders named corporate psychopaths for the organizational health and well-being. For this purpose, the study adopted an empirical-theoretical approach, a quantitative evaluation and a survey as the method of data collection, by applying a questionnaire made up by the Self Report Psychopathy (SRP) scale (Paulhus, Neumann, & Hare, 2014), in order to illuminate the non-pathological traits of Psychopathy; the Well-being at work Scale (Paschoal & Tamayo, 2008); and the Perception of Organizational Health Scale by Gomide Jr., Moura, Cunha, & Sousa (1999). The questionnaire was applied to 100 employees from the administrative area of an open capital Brazilian company in the educational area. The results showed that employees who identified psychopathy traits in their immediate leaders externalized preoccupation, irritation, depression, anxiety, frustration, nervousness, tension and rage, demonstrating uneasiness at the workplace. They also reported that there is a dishonest competition to achieve higher hierarchical positions, no respect between colleagues, and people do not trust each other, demonstrating therefore aspects that reveal a compromised organizational health. The study will make a contribution by providing insights into how companies can recognize and avoid the selection and recruitment of employees who exhibit psychopathy traits, especially due to the potential of these employess becoming leaders and compromising organizational health and well-being. The issue deserves especial attention and more studies should be carried out regarding the consequences of psychopathic leaders' actions for corporate and public health. Key messages Provide insights into how companies can recognize and avoid the selection and recruitment of employees who exhibit psychopathy traits and compromising organizational health and welbeing. The issue deserves especial attention and more studies should be carried out regarding the consequences of psychopathatic leaders’ actions for corporate and public health.

scholarly journals Impact of individual-level characteristics and transmission mitigation behaviors on SARS-CoV-2 infection and seroprevalence in a large Northern California Bay Area cohort

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cameron Adams ◽  
Mary Horton ◽  
Olivia Solomon ◽  
Marcus Wong ◽  
Sean L. Wu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Lower Income ◽  
Northern California ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Health Measures ◽  
Large Community ◽  
Bay Area

AbstractComprehensive data on transmission mitigation behaviors and SARS-CoV-2 infection and serostatus are needed from large, community-based cohorts to identify SARS-CoV-2 risk factors and impact of public health measures. From July 2020 to March 2021, ≈5,500 adults from the East Bay Area, California were followed over three data collection rounds. We estimated the prevalence of antibodies from SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination, and self-reported COVID-19 test positivity. Population-adjusted SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was low, increasing from 1.03% (95% CI: 0.50-1.96) in Round 1 (July-September 2020), to 1.37% (95% CI: 0.75-2.39) in Round 2 (October-December 2020), to 2.18% (95% CI: 1.48-3.17) in Round 3 (February-March 2021). Population-adjusted seroprevalence of COVID-19 vaccination was 21.64% (95% CI: 19.20-24.34) in Round 3. Despite >99% of participants reporting wearing masks, non-Whites, lower-income, and lower-educated individuals had the highest SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and lowest vaccination seroprevalence. Our results demonstrate that more effective policies are needed to address these disparities and inequities.

scholarly journals Underrepresentation of Phenotypic Variability of 16p13.11 Microduplication Syndrome Assessed With an Online Self-Phenotyping Tool (Phenotypr): Cohort Study

10.2196/21023 ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 23 (3) ◽  
pp. e21023
Author(s):  
Jianqiao Li ◽  
Margaret A Hojlo ◽  
Sampath Chennuri ◽  
Nitin Gujral ◽  
Heather L Paterson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Phenotypic Variability ◽  
Genetic Disorders ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Rare Disorders ◽  
Survey Tool ◽  
Affected Person ◽  
Number Variation ◽  
Survey Results ◽  
Variable Presentation

Background 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome has a variable presentation and is characterized primarily by neurodevelopmental and physical phenotypes resulting from copy number variation at chromosome 16p13.11. Given its variability, there may be features that have not yet been reported. The goal of this study was to use a patient “self-phenotyping” survey to collect data directly from patients to further characterize the phenotypes of 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome. Objective This study aimed to (1) discover self-identified phenotypes in 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome that have been underrepresented in the scientific literature and (2) demonstrate that self-phenotyping tools are valuable sources of data for the medical and scientific communities. Methods As part of a large study to compare and evaluate patient self-phenotyping surveys, an online survey tool, Phenotypr, was developed for patients with rare disorders to self-report phenotypes. Participants with 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome were recruited through the Boston Children's Hospital 16p13.11 Registry. Either the caregiver, parent, or legal guardian of an affected child or the affected person (if aged 18 years or above) completed the survey. Results were securely transferred to a Research Electronic Data Capture database and aggregated for analysis. Results A total of 19 participants enrolled in the study. Notably, among the 19 participants, aggression and anxiety were mentioned by 3 (16%) and 4 (21%) participants, respectively, which is an increase over the numbers in previously published literature. Additionally, among the 19 participants, 3 (16%) had asthma and 2 (11%) had other immunological disorders, both of which have not been previously described in the syndrome. Conclusions Several phenotypes might be underrepresented in the previous 16p13.11 microduplication literature, and new possible phenotypes have been identified. Whenever possible, patients should continue to be referenced as a source of complete phenotyping data on their condition. Self-phenotyping may lead to a better understanding of the prevalence of phenotypes in genetic disorders and may identify previously unreported phenotypes.

scholarly journals Underrepresentation of Phenotypic Variability of 16p13.11 Microduplication Syndrome Assessed With an Online Self-Phenotyping Tool (Phenotypr): Cohort Study (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jianqiao Li ◽  
Margaret A Hojlo ◽  
Sampath Chennuri ◽  
Nitin Gujral ◽  
Heather L Paterson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Phenotypic Variability ◽  
Genetic Disorders ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Rare Disorders ◽  
Survey Tool ◽  
Affected Person ◽  
Number Variation ◽  
Survey Results ◽  
Variable Presentation

BACKGROUND 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome has a variable presentation and is characterized primarily by neurodevelopmental and physical phenotypes resulting from copy number variation at chromosome 16p13.11. Given its variability, there may be features that have not yet been reported. The goal of this study was to use a patient “self-phenotyping” survey to collect data directly from patients to further characterize the phenotypes of 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to (1) discover self-identified phenotypes in 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome that have been underrepresented in the scientific literature and (2) demonstrate that self-phenotyping tools are valuable sources of data for the medical and scientific communities. METHODS As part of a large study to compare and evaluate patient self-phenotyping surveys, an online survey tool, Phenotypr, was developed for patients with rare disorders to self-report phenotypes. Participants with 16p13.11 microduplication syndrome were recruited through the Boston Children's Hospital 16p13.11 Registry. Either the caregiver, parent, or legal guardian of an affected child or the affected person (if aged 18 years or above) completed the survey. Results were securely transferred to a Research Electronic Data Capture database and aggregated for analysis. RESULTS A total of 19 participants enrolled in the study. Notably, among the 19 participants, aggression and anxiety were mentioned by 3 (16%) and 4 (21%) participants, respectively, which is an increase over the numbers in previously published literature. Additionally, among the 19 participants, 3 (16%) had asthma and 2 (11%) had other immunological disorders, both of which have not been previously described in the syndrome. CONCLUSIONS Several phenotypes might be underrepresented in the previous 16p13.11 microduplication literature, and new possible phenotypes have been identified. Whenever possible, patients should continue to be referenced as a source of complete phenotyping data on their condition. Self-phenotyping may lead to a better understanding of the prevalence of phenotypes in genetic disorders and may identify previously unreported phenotypes.

scholarly journals Data collection for outbreak investigations: defining a minimal data set using a Delphi approach

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne Perrocheau ◽  
Hannah Brindle ◽  
Chrissy Roberts ◽  
Srinivas Murthy ◽  
Sharmila Shetty ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Electronic Device ◽  
Subsequent Development ◽  
Delphi Process ◽  
Knowledge Network ◽  
Outbreak Investigation ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Delphi Approach

Abstract Background Timely but accurate data collection is needed during health emergencies to inform public health responses. Often, an abundance of data is collected but not used. When outbreaks and other health events occur in remote and complex settings, operatives on the ground are often required to cover multiple tasks whilst working with limited resources. Tools that facilitate the collection of essential data during the early investigations of a potential public health event can support effective public health decision-making. We proposed to define the minimum set of quantitative information to collect whilst using electronic device or not. Here we present the process used to select the minimum information required to describe an outbreak of any cause during its initial stages and occurring in remote settings. Methods A working group of epidemiologists took part in two rounds of a Delphi process to categorise the variables to be included in an initial outbreak investigation form. This took place between January-June 2019 using an online survey. Results At a threshold of seventy-five percent, consensus was reached for nineteen (23.2%) variables which were all classified as ‘essential’. This increased to twenty-six (31.7%) variables when the threshold was reduced to 60% with all but one variable classified as ‘essential’. Twenty-five of these variables were included in the ‘Time zero initial case investigation’ ‘(T0)’ form which was shared with the members of the Rapid Response Team Knowledge Network for field testing and feedback. The form has been readily available online by WHO since September 2019. Conclusion This is the first known Delphi process used to determine the minimum variables needed for an outbreak investigation. The subsequent development of the T0 form will improve the efficiency and standardisation of data collection during emergencies.

scholarly journals Public Health Surveillance in a Large Evacuation Shelter Post Hurricane Harvey

2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Aisha Haynie ◽  
Sherry Jin ◽  
Leann Liu ◽  
Sherrill Pirsamadi ◽  
Benjamin Hornstein ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Mental Health ◽  
Disease Control ◽  
Disease Transmission ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Communicable Disease ◽  
Disease Outbreaks ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Harris County ◽  
Survey Tool

Objective1) Describe HCPH’s disease surveillance and prevention activities within the NRG Center mega-shelter; 2) Present surveillance findings with an emphasis on sharing tools that were developed and may be utilized for future disaster response efforts; 3) Discuss successes achieved, challenges encountered, and lessons learned from this emergency response.IntroductionHurricane Harvey made landfall along the Texas coast on August 25th, 2017 as a Category 4 storm. It is estimated that the ensuing rainfall caused record flooding of at least 18 inches in 70% of Harris County. Over 30,000 residents were displaced and 50 deaths occurred due to the devastation. At least 53 temporary refuge shelters opened in various parts of Harris County to accommodate displaced residents. On the evening of August 29th, Harris County and community partners set up a 10,000 bed mega-shelter at NRG Center, in efforts to centralize refuge efforts. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) was responsible for round-the-clock surveillance to monitor resident health status and prevent communicable disease outbreaks within the mega-shelter. This was accomplished through direct and indirect resident health assessments, along with coordinated prevention and disease control efforts. Despite HCPH’s 20-day active response, and identification of two relatively small but potentially worrisome communicable disease outbreaks, no large-scale disease outbreaks occurred within the NRG Center mega-shelter.MethodsActive surveillance was conducted in the NRG shelter to rapidly detect communicable and high-consequence illness and to prevent disease transmission. An online survey tool and novel epidemiology consulting method were developed to aid in this surveillance. Surveillance included daily review of onsite medical, mental health, pharmacy, and vaccination activities, as well as nightly cot-to-cot resident health surveys. Symptoms of infectious disease, exacerbation of chronic disease, and mental health issues among evacuees were closely monitored. Rapid epidemiology consultations were performed for shelter residents displaying symptoms consistent with communicable illness or other signs of distress during nightly cot surveys. Onsite rapid assay tests and public health laboratory testing were used to confirm disease diagnoses. When indicated, disease control measures were implemented and residents referred for further evaluation. Frequencies and percentages were used in the descriptive analysis.ResultsHarris County’s NRG Center mega-shelter housed 3,365 evacuees at its peak. 3,606 household health surveys were completed during 20 days of active surveillance, representing 7,152 individual resident evaluations, and 395 epidemiology consultations. Multifaceted surveillance uncovered influenza-like illness and gastrointestinal (GI) complaints, revealing an Influenza A outbreak of 20 cases, 3 isolated cases of strep throat, and a Norovirus cluster of 5 cases. Disease control activities included creation of respiratory and GI isolation rooms, provision of over 771 influenza vaccinations, generous distribution of hand sanitizer throughout the shelter, placement of hygiene signage, and frequent bilingual public health public service announcements in the dormitory areas. No widespread outbreaks of communicable disease occurred. Additionally, a number of shelter residents were referred to the clinic after reporting exacerbation of chronical conditions or mental health concerns, including one individual with suicidal ideations.ConclusionsEffective public health surveillance and implementation of disease control measures in disaster shelters are critical to detecting and preventing communicable illness. HCPH’s rigorous surveillance and response system in the NRG Center mega-shelter, including online survey tool and novel consultation method, resulted in timely identification and isolation of patients with gastrointestinal and influenza-like illness. These were likely key factors in the successful prevention of widespread disease transmission. Additional success factors included successful partnerships with onsite clinical and pharmacy teams, cooperative and engaged shelter leadership, synergistic internal surveillance team dynamics, availability of student volunteers, sufficient quantities of influenza vaccine, and access to mobile survey technology. Challenges, mostly related to scope and magnitude of response, included lack of pre-designed survey tools, relatively new staff without significant disaster experience, and simultaneous management of multiple surveillance activities within the community. Personal hurricane-related losses experienced by HCPH staff also impacted response efforts. HCPH’s rich disaster response experiences at the NRG mega-shelter and developed surveillance tools can serve as a planning guide for future public health emergencies in Harris County and other jurisdictions.

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