Syndromic Surveillance Solution for Bioterrorism Preparedness in Montana
The University of Montana OTC Drug Net is a web-based syndromic surveillance information system (SSIS) designed for the university’s School of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences. This innovative system allows Montana public health officials to monitor the sales of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, tracking key indicators that may signal emerging epidemiologic events.
By analyzing sales data and geospatial information on the location of these pharmaceuticals, public health officials can identify abnormal sales volumes and respond to potential health threats. The system, funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Bioterrorism Grant and administered by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, enhances bioterrorism preparedness and public health monitoring.
The OTC sales data is managed within a geodatabase and visualized through an ArcGIS web map, providing a county-level overview of sales trends. When sales volumes exceed predefined syndromic thresholds, public health officials are alerted, enabling them to take swift action to address potential health concerns.
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