Overview
A response to an infectious disease event might seem unique however the process of information management should remain the same with some possible exceptions:
- Planning - more time might be necessary to fully understand the types of data and sources of data that decision-makers will need. Historically WHO takes the lead in these situations, be sure to check with them before starting to plan.
- Collection - the process of data collection might have health-related issues to take into considerations such as the use of mobile devices (how to disinfect).
- Processing - probably not much change but those with health data experience might be needed to identify possible data errors.
- Analysis - subject matter experts are critical!
- Dissemination - use subject matter experts in the design of products and key messages.
- Feedback -
CODs specific to the event could include:
- Health facilities
- Health boundaries
- Insecure areas
- Refugee and IDP (numbers and movement)
- Transport routes
- Airports (including movement of people - flight paths)
- Borders and crossing points
Recommendations
- Use existing structures and platforms, if at all possible, such as HDX, HR.info, ReliefWeb, H.id. There might be a push to try new systems but, as always, an emergency is not the time to try out new software or systems.
- Many new actors might show up to provide assistance and support, be flexible to take advantage of new opportunities but don't drastically change the approach to IM as conducted in a "regular" emergency
- Data that OCHA IMOs normally do not have experience with could be critical especially epidemiological data, reach out to subject matter experts to help analyze and present the data.
- Consider doing a stakeholder mapping exercise to identify data sources and information flows.
Outputs/Resources from Ebola Response in 2018-2020
Outputs/Resources from Ebola Response in 2014