For nearly two years, PBIDS has provided the data needed to guide vaccine rollouts, respond to pandemics, and shape health policy in Kenya and beyond.
Since 2006, data from Asembo and Kibera have been instrumental in national decision-making.
PBIDS provided the critical evidence base for the introduction of life-saving vaccines in Kenya. Our longitudinal data evaluated the effectiveness of the 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV10) and rotavirus vaccines, directly contributing to the reduction of childhood mortality[cite: 177, 212].
Beyond vaccines, we have assessed the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs, on reducing diarrheal diseases.
When COVID-19 emerged, the PBIDS platform was immediately leveraged to monitor the pandemic. We provided timely insights on SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology, tracked community transmission trends, and monitored the effectiveness of mitigation measures and vaccine rollout in Kenya.
With the expansion to Isiolo and new surveillance modules, we are tackling the complex health challenges of tomorrow.
Our findings assist the Ministry of Health and County Governments in prioritizing prevention strategies. By accurately estimating the burden of disease, authorities can allocate limited resources where they are needed most.
PBIDS contributes to global health security by detecting (re)emerging pathogens early. This includes Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) to identify unusual clusters of illness before they become widespread outbreaks.
Through our expansion to Isiolo, we monitor the human-animal interface. We track "spillover" infections (zoonoses) and test animals for diseases that affect both livestock productivity and human health.
The fight against infectious diseases is threatened by drug resistance. PBIDS actively monitors for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in humans, animals, and the environment to inform treatment guidelines.
Recognizing the "double burden" of disease, PBIDS now screens for NCDs like hypertension and diabetes. We identify risk factors to help communities manage chronic conditions alongside infectious threats.
The platform serves as a testing ground for novel surveillance approaches. We identify gaps in existing systems and provide a standby platform that can be surged during national emergencies.
Participants receive regular health screenings. We facilitate early detection of infections and NCDs, often identifying conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Where resources allow, we provide subsidized medical care for acute illnesses and reimburse transport costs for surveillance-related facility visits.
In pastoralist communities like Isiolo, we provide basic veterinary support (e.g., de-wormers, wound sprays) and communicate disease risks to help improve livestock productivity.
