Once data are clean and organized, interpretation of the data goes back to the sampling and study design, definitions used to establish cutoffs, and specific pathogens. Although these approaches are also relevant for single-pathogen serosurveillance, interpreting the results of multi-pathogen serosurveys requires nuance in both the interpretation and communication of results.
Data triangulation
To contextualize and understand seroprevalence results, data triangulation with other data streams should be done.
Figure. Data triangulation of multipathogen serosurveillance results
This triangulation allows validation of findings and can identify patterns such as temporal trends or geographic hot spots.
Data dissemination
Providing serosurveillance data to program and policy makers in a digestible format is necessary to use the data for action. Departments in the Ministry of Health and health partners are typically focused on their particular program and may not be interested in all of the data or be unsure of seroprevalence data in their field. Coordination across different teams interested in different pathogens and consulting each of them for interpretation of data may take time. The information that each group wants to see may also differ.
Although a full detailed report should be developed containing all of the findings, shorter briefs or presentations may be produced more quickly as a useful reference to guide program and policy makers in a more timely manner.
Considering all of the results of a multi-pathogen serosurvey together can provide much richer detail than sequential single-pathogen serosurveys as they provide serological data at a single point in time across pathogens.
| Pathogens | Example Case Study |
|---|---|
| Multiple Plasmodium species |
Characterize co-prevalence of multiple Plasmodium species (e.g., P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale) in a given community Estimate seroprevalence related to immunization with RTS,S versus natural infection |
| Neglected tropical diseases | Identify potential off-target effects of mass drug administration campaigns (e.g., reduced seroprevalence against yaws antigens in adults in communities where azithromycin is mass administered to children for trachoma campaigns) |
| Multiple vaccine-preventable diseases and neglected tropical diseases | Identify opportunities for integration of activities (e.g., low seroprevalence of both a vaccine-preventable disease and trachoma in a trachoma-endemic region could suggest high attendance at MDA azithromycin campaigns and a possible avenue for focused catch-up immunization efforts) |