Lebanon's experience in surveillance of communicable diseases during a mass gathering: Sixth Francophone Games, 2009

ABSTRACT

In 2009, Lebanon hosted the 6th Francophone Games. Pandemic A[H1N1]2009 virus presented significant health threat at the time. A surveillance strategy was implemented for the timely detection and management of epidemiological events and outbreaks, in particular for A[H1N1]2009 virus cases. Data were collected and managed daily and feedback was generated through daily bulletins. A total of 299 medical consultations were reported, 29% of which related to infectious diseases. There were 10 cases reported as acute respiratory infections; all tested negative for A[H1N1]2009 virus within 24 hours. Twenty-three cases of gastroenteritis were reported, for which 11 stool cultures were negative. While pandemic A[H1N1]2009 did not interfere with the Games, it was essential to strengthen surveillance and to have timely epidemiological information. This was achieved through preparedness, a multi-disciplinary approach, timely management and coordination