The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #73449

Elizabeth Zell, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, MS-C09, Atlanta, GA 30341, 404-639-4710, ezr1@cdc.gov

Background: The Active Bacterial Core Surveillance (ABCs) system, part of CDC’s Emerging Infections Program, conducts surveillance for five bacterial pathogens: group A and B streptococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Contributions to public health are augmented by the addition of special studies that further investigate answers to public health problems concerning the ABCs pathogens.

Methods: Active population and laboratory-based surveillance is conducted in 9 well-defined and geographically diverse locations throughout the United States. Cases of invasive disease are identified through sterile site isolates. Laboratory audits ensure complete reporting. Clinical and demographic data are recorded using standardized forms; available isolates are collected for further evaluation.

Results: ABCs has contributed to updated guidelines for the prevention of early onset group B streptococcus and group A streptococcus. Surveillance data has assisted the development of recommendations for use of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine by focusing on groups at highest risk for disease. ABCs is currently documenting the reduction in the burden of S. pneumoniae due to the vaccine, including the fall of infections due to antimicrobial resistant pneumococci.

Conclusions: ABCs both conducts routine surveillance and provides important infrastructure for further epidemiologic studies of bacterial pathogens of public health importance. This well-established system monitors rates of invasive disease and antimicrobial resistance, aids in the development and evaluation of new vaccines, and guides public health practice by developing and assessing the impact of disease prevention guidelines.

Learning Objectives:

• Introduction to Active Bacterial Core Surveillance at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Keywords: Surveillance,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.