O-03 Implementation of a Novel Regional Mass Gatherings Surveillance System in the Caribbean for T20 Cricket World Cup 2024

Methods: CARPHA’s electronic MGSS was designed for syndromic surveillance using thresholds that were developed, considering (i) the Caribbean small island setting, (ii) data collected during the pilot testing prior to the World Cup, (iii) the UNHCR’s handbook on disease surveillance thresholds and (iv) the risk profile of the event. Userfriendly, on-the-field data entry with immediate analysis and reporting were also facilitated through the MGSS. Once thresholds were passed, alerts were automatically disseminated, notifying the appropriate stakeholders immediately for the necessary public health action.

Results: Thirty-one MG and Health Facility Sites were registered onto the system and surveillance teams across Caribbean host countries were able to digitally capture 146 cases (generated 17 syndromic cases: 14 acute gastroenteritisrelated and 3 fever with respiratory symptoms). Syndromic thresholds were passed in two occasions triggering automated alerts and immediate investigations. The system also reported non-communicable health issues like accidents/ injuries (33 cases) and heat-related illnesses (22 cases).

Conclusion: Effective surveillance of MG events is an essential component of public health planning, especially in the Caribbean region where these events are also attended by visitors of varying nationalities. The MGSS provided real-time data collection, syndromic alerts, data analytics and custom reports to public health leaders and experts for informed decision-making. The early warning and response mechanism facilitated early identification, communication and response to infectious disease threats arising from these events and consequently reduced the risk of outbreaks that can overwhelm the health systems in the Caribbean.