Authors:
Oliver J, Baker MG, Pierse N, Carapetis J.
Authors notes:
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. 2015;51(11):1071-7.
Keywords:
cardiology, infectious disease, public health surveillance
Abstract:
Aim: Rheumatic fever (RF) prevention, control and surveillance are increasingly important priorities in New Zealand (NZ) and Australia.
We compared RF surveillance across Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries to assist in benchmarking and identifying useful approaches.
Methods: A structured literature review was completed using Medline and PubMed databases, investigating RF incidence rates.
Surveillance methods were noted.
Health department websites were searched to assess whether addressing RF was a Government priority.
Results: Of 32 OECD member countries, nine reported RF incidence rates after 1999.
Highest rates were seen in indigenous Australians, and NZ Maori and Pacific peoples.
NZ and Australian surveillance systems are highly developed, with notification and register data compiled regularly.