Table 1 Topics and issues considered in development of the Japanese encephalitis (JE) surveillance standards
TOPIC | ISSUES CONSIDERED |
|---|---|
Clinical case definition | Is it possible to clinically differentiate JE from other causes of acute encephalitis? What symptoms and signs should be included in the case definition for acute encephalitis syndrome (AES)? Should parameters such as age and seasonality be included in the case definition? |
Laboratory criteria for confirmation | What samples should be used for confirming JE infection, and which are preferred? What tests are appropriate for confirming JE infection? What timing should be recommended for collection of samples? What factors need to be considered in testing for JE virus infection and in interpreting test results? |
Case classification | What case classifications are appropriate based on clinical, epidemiological and laboratory findings? |
Types of surveillance | What is the best model for JE surveillance and are different types of surveillance appropriate in different settings? |
Minimum data elements, analyses and reporting | What data should be collected for analysis and reporting for routine surveillance purposes? What targets should be used to monitor the quality of JE surveillance? |
Special aspects | What other special aspects of clinical and laboratory surveillance for AES and JE should be considered? |