Principles of public health surveillance: a revisit to fundamental concepts

Abstract

The objective of this article focuses on fundamental concepts of public health surveillance, especially to graduate students and health professionals who are new to this discipline. The article initially explains how concepts of surveillance in public health have evolved over the period of six decades. Then the three major objectives of surveillance are further discussed in detail. With clear specification of the objective, surveillance system can be established to fulfill the goal. General considerations for establishing new surveillance system are therefore outlined. Methodical process of surveillance from information generation to the link to public health actions is thoroughly explained. Challenging issues and current technical advance in this field of epidemiological practice are additionally summarized.