Table 2 Participant suggestions for surveillance in Isabel Province to prevent importation of malaria
Suggestion: | Suggested by: | Advantages and disadvantages raised by participants: |
|---|---|---|
RDT at wharf in Honiara before boarding ship | Most | Could potentially link with ticket purchase Could potentially be made a mandatory requirement before boarding |
RDT onboard ship en route | Some | Prevents further boarding delay at already chaotic wharf May be less likely to miss people Overcrowding, minimal shelter and poor weather would hamper testing Potential stigma |
Testing a day or two prior to departure | A few | Prevents further boarding delay at already chaotic wharf Passenger can contract malaria between testing and departure |
Identifying mark to identify those tested or those testing positive (eg. indelible ink) | A few | Easy identification Potential stigma |
"Malaria passports" or identification cards | A few | Personal record of testing and treatment history Costly to implement |
Testing on arrival in villages | Some | Would detect unscheduled travel such as OBM Would require additional training of health workers or volunteers and community awareness |
Legislation to enforce testing | Many | Empowerment for health workers and volunteers Reduce noncompliance |