The Department of Epidemiological Surveillance and Prevention carries out the following work in connection with its responsibilities.
Epidemiological investigation of the infection
For this purpose, a repeat blood sample of the patient is taken by the epidemiologist for further examination, and if a positive result is obtained, this gives grounds to consider the possibility of a higher risk of HIV infection. In another test system, a blood sample is tested for the third time and a positive result is taken for the fourth or final time to confirm the presence of antibodies to HIV by immunoblotting.
Confirmation of HIV infection is made by the decision of the Expert Council on the basis of laboratory, epidemiological and clinical data on the basis of the presentation of the relevant structures of the Center.
Conducting epidemiological research (preparation of research document)
When the second examination of a citizen gives a positive result, an epidemiologist conducts an epidemiological investigation of the infection. The source of infection is sought, and if the result is another individual, an epidural is performed around him. In some cases, more than one source can be identified as a result of research.
Obtaining a warning letter from an HIV-infected person (preparation of a document)
In addition to the drafting of the epidemiological investigation document, the citizen is issued a warrant of criminal liability for knowingly infecting others with HIV, and both documents are kept in his medical records and at the same time separately.
Obtaining informed consent for examination and treatment
Antiretroviral therapy is initiated with the informed consent of the patient in order to involve him in the treatment program as soon as possible. After receiving the decision of the Citizen Expert Council and the registration code based on it, the Department of Epidemiological Surveillance and Prevention submits the patient’s medical records to the Department of Dispensary Surveillance and Outpatient Treatment. It should be noted that during all examinations, surveys and future treatment procedures, the citizen participates only voluntarily. It is inadmissible to involve him in the medical process by any force.
Search for evaders
From the process of detecting HIV patients to confirming their diagnosis and providing medical care, along with escort and research activities, epidemiologists are working to find those who have stopped the procedure and spread it consciously, to treat them at any stage, and to strengthen their commitment to it.
Incorrect diagnosis, examination of incorrectly recorded blood samples
In practice, the epidemiologist investigates the cases that have occurred and may occur as a result of incorrect marking of blood samples for any reason, identifies the culprits, determines the degree of responsibility and monitors the mandatory measurement.
Conducting exploratory epidemiological surveillance research
The Department of Epidemiological Surveillance and Prevention conducts periodic (usually every 2 years) reconnaissance epidemiological surveillance surveys to verify the accuracy of the indicators and the effectiveness of the control methods used, and the results are evaluated as leading criteria in choosing the right control areas. Although these studies have a huge work potential and time, they play an invaluable role in planning and forecasting.
Awareness in the field of prevention
The Department of Epidemiological Surveillance and Prevention organizes mass awareness and examination campaigns. Dissemination of comprehensive knowledge on HIV control among educational institutions and senior students, preparation of propaganda and advocacy materials are also included in the activities of this department.
Areas of activity of the department include scientific-practical conferences, training courses, maintaining contacts with the media, watching meetings organized by other countries to participate, sending scientific articles and theses to them.
Establishing and maintaining business relationships
International organizations, non-governmental organizations operating in the country, coordination of their activities related to HIV and participation in joint activities are in the field of prevention activities of the department.
Organizational and methodological work
The department of organizational and methodical work operates in the following areas of work:
Organizes the activities of structural units.
Monitors compliance with the rules adopted in the performance of activities and duties.
Participates in the analysis of key performance indicators and makes recommendations as a result.
Makes proposals on the organization of research and implementation of ways to increase the level of activity of structural units.
Provides methodological assistance to medical institutions in the fight against HIV.
Coordinates the recommendations and proposals of international organizations and countries with high experience in accordance with the country’s conditions.
Participates in the preparation of reports on areas of activity, the organization of public events.
In terms of practical activities, the following responsibilities are assigned to the PMC:
Receives reports of medical institutions on combating HIV infection, conducts analysis, makes suggestions and recommendations on the results.
Prepares reports for presentation to the Ministry of Health, other governing bodies, committees, headquarters and other ministries.
Participates in the implementation of the following activities:
In preparing reports on the development and implementation of state strategic programs to combat HIV.
Preparation of correspondence documents of RGMM with organizations, including preparation of letters and references.
In providing methodological assistance to regional medical institutions of the republic, in the activities carried out and in inspections within the commissions.
At conferences, trainings and seminars organized by the countries of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, including the Republic of Azerbaijan.
In joint scientific-practical researches with the countries of the region.
Activities of public commissions and bodies (tender, handover, emergencies, hospitalization, doctor-consultation commissions) organized by RGMM.
In organized reconnaissance epidemiological surveillance studies.
Supporting relations with the media, in joint awareness-raising activities with them.
Activity orders, instructions, educational printed materials in the design of visual aids.