Hotspot or blind spot? Historical perspectives on surveillance and response to epidemics in the Central African Republic

Pierre-Marie David (), Emmanuel Nakouné () and Tamara Giles-Vernick ()
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Pierre-Marie David: Université de Montréal
Emmanuel Nakouné: Institut Pasteur de Bangui
Tamara Giles-Vernick: Institut Pasteur

International Journal of Public Health, 2020, vol. 65, issue 3, No 6, 248 pages

Abstract: Abstract Objectives The Central African Republic (CAR), a site of recurrent disease emergence, developed a noteworthy epidemiological surveillance system from the colonial period, but its health measures have remained among the world’s lowest. To understand this disparity between surveillance and public health, we examined selected moments in its history of surveillance and changing relations with public health structures. Methods We conducted archival research in CAR and French archives and 18 semi-structured interviews with key researchers working in CAR. Results We find long-term continuities in privileging surveillance over the health system and population health, making the CAR a “hotspot” for emerging diseases and a “blind spot” of primary health care. From the colonial period, the country attracted considerable support for surveillance, without concomitant investment in public health system. Political disputes and financial constraints have obscured real primary care needs on the ground. Conclusions As both a hotspot and a blind spot for global health, the CAR signals the need to reorient health interventions to address the long-term health of Central African people.

Keywords: Surveillance; Disease emergence; Epidemics; Central Africa; History; Pasteur (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01338-x

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