In general, data from public health surveillance can be used for short- and long-term planning and response through retrospective data analysis of trends over time or specific events. Combining health outcome data (e.g., hospitalizations or deaths) with environmental and socio-demographic information also provides a more complete picture of most vulnerable populations. Using syndromic surveillance systems for climate and health surveillance offers the unique opportunity to help quantify and track in near-real time the burden of disease from climate and weather impacts.
Harduar-Morano Laurel
Adverse health effects related to climate change are currently being seen, and these adverse outcomes are likely to increase in the future. Syndromic surveillance systems can provide near-real time information which may be used for situational awareness as communities react to these adverse events. These systems may also provide another source of retrospective information, such as triage notes or diagnostic data at time of visit (e.g. blood pressure), which can also be used for planning and response.