Abstract

Early detection of a novel strain (genotype) of influenza virus in the NSW population is the key to controlling a pandemic. If this occurs, ongoing surveillance will help determine the epidemiology and risk factors of the virus as well as its impact on essential services. Important components of surveillance preparedness in NSW include: border surveillance; hospital-based screening for suspected cases; protocols for efficient transport and testing of viral specimens; flexible, robust electronic tools for rapid surveillance data collection; management and reporting; and creation of surveillance surge capacity.