Introduction to Outbreak Investigations in Humanitarian Emergencies

Conference Vault, Humanitarian & Disaster Medicine
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Charlotte Hammer brings a wealth of frontline experience in infectious disease epidemiology, specialising in outbreak response and epidemic intelligence in complex emergencies.

This session from the World Extreme Medicine Conference introduces the fundamentals of outbreak investigation through the lens of humanitarian response. Covering both the classical and adapted 10-step approach, Charlotte explores how conflict zones, displaced populations, and resource limitations shape the way we detect, trace, and contain infectious disease.

Expect practical insight drawn from global deployments, with a focus on:

  • High-consequence and emerging disease management

  • Navigating data gaps and logistical barriers in-field

  • Coordination with humanitarian agencies under pressure

  • Lessons for healthcare professionals working in unstable regions

More Information

Length: 56m

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, attendees will be able to:

  1. Outline the classical 10-step framework for outbreak investigation.

  2. Understand how this process is adapted in humanitarian emergencies.

  3. Identify operational barriers to epidemic intelligence in crisis settings.

  4. Recognise the role of surveillance, community trust, and context analysis in successful outbreak response.

  5. Apply outbreak investigation principles to real-world humanitarian scenarios.

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