Development of the Efficacy-enhanced Influenza Screening and Control System Model in a Border Temporary Shelter at Saphung Subdistrict, Sirattana District, Sisaket Province

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop a model for enhancing the efficacy of the influenza screening and control system in border temporary shelters at Saphung Subdistrict, Sirattana District, Sisaket Province. Target populations comprised three groups selected based on inclusion criteria: healthcare personnel, community-based working groups, and patients receiving treatment for influenza. Data were collected using a disease screening form, an operational performance record form, and a group discussion form. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the effective reproduction number, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The results revealed that situation and environmental factors were key. A cumulative total of 28 cases was detected, representing an attack rate of 1.98%. Overcrowding and group living were identified as key environmental factors driving rapid transmission of outbreaks. The developed model comprised the "S-S-S" mechanisms: S-Staff (operator capacity building), S-Stuff (establishing an Acute Respiratory Infection corner and utilizing rapid diagnostic test kits), and S-System (environmental risk assessment, active case finding, preliminary disease detection and diagnosis, disease investigation, patient referral, and sanitation management). Following model implementation, 31 cases were identified, representing an attack rate of 2.19%. The effective reproduction number decreased below the critical threshold, indicating the potential to control person-to-person transmission. Disease detection was accelerated to 1–3 days, disease investigation was sped up to 1 day, and complete disease control was achieved in 2–4 days. The efficacy of the model was demonstrated by comprehensive case detection, rapid outbreak detection and control, zero severe cases or deaths, and high operator competency. Therefore, the S-S-S Model should be officially incorporated into influenza-specific plans and integrated into routine operations to establish sustainable communicable disease management in the area. This model can enhance emergency outbreak response in temporary shelters with a capacity of 1,001 to 3,000 people and can be practically applied to other temporary shelters of similar sizes and comparable contexts.