Saudi Arabia Enhances Respiratory Infection Surveillance with 100-Hospital Network

Saudi Arabia has implemented a network of 100 hospitals and healthcare centers to intensify surveillance of respiratory infections, as detailed by Dr. Abdullah Asiri, Assistant Deputy Minister of Health for Preventive Health.

Saudi Arabia, Respiratory Infection Surveillance, Respiratory Infection, Saudi Arabia Hospital Network, Saudi Arabia Hospital — Saudi Arabia Enhances Respiratory Infection Surveillance with 100-Hospital Network

Dr. Asiri, who serves as an infectious diseases consultant at the Ministry of Health, explained that the network consists of 30 hospitals and 70 primary healthcare centers strategically positioned across various geographical and demographic regions in the kingdom. Their main objective is to collect detailed data on respiratory infections, with a specific focus on severe cases.

A two-tier examination of respiratory samples (swabs) is planned. The initial level will occur at the monitoring centers, where tests for influenza, coronavirus, and respiratory syncytial virus will be conducted. The second, more comprehensive examination will take place at the Public Health Authority (Weqaya) laboratory. This stage will include testing for a broader range of pathogens, sub-classification of influenza strains, and genetic sequencing of the coronavirus.

Dr. Asiri expressed concern about the potential resurgence of respiratory infections to pre-COVID-19 levels, attributing this risk to lapses in preventive and precautionary measures. He highlighted that the current spread primarily involves familiar viruses and bacteria, with no indications of new epidemic threats.

However, he underscored the ongoing necessity for vigilance and adherence to health guidelines to mitigate the risk of widespread infections.

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