With the arrival of meteorological summer on 1 June, various insect species become more active, potentially spreading diseases like Lyme disease and encephalitis. However, Luxembourg currently lacks a system to systematically track such illnesses. “Reassure” aims to address this gap.
Similar projects abroad have inspired this collaboration, which aims to streamline the sharing of data from A&E departments with the National Health Directorate. By swiftly identifying any surge in specific diseases or unusual diagnoses, authorities hope to intervene promptly.
Dr Anne Vergison, a division head at the Health Inspectorate, elaborated on the project’s approach. Initially, they will analyse data from 2023 to assess the feasibility and accuracy of their diagnostic capabilities. While Dr Vergison acknowledged that pinpointing individual insect bites may prove challenging, the project anticipates identifying broader health trends, such as dehydration in the elderly.
The project’s ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights, allowing authorities to respond effectively to emerging health threats, even beyond the scope of conventional alerts like heatwaves.
Another critical aspect under consideration is the avoidance of double-counting patients presenting the same issue at different A&E locations. Despite this challenge, the project aims to be fully operational by the onset of winter.
Dr Vergison explains that the project’s initial focus was on severe respiratory infections, which often strain hospital resources during the winter months. By identifying early signs of a surge in cases like bronchiolitis and influenza, healthcare facilities could proactively adjust their services and issue warnings about potential overcrowding.
Data protection remains a priority throughout the project’s implementation. The selection of CHEM as a partner hospital was based on past positive experiences and considerations for regional representation. Plans are underway to expand the initiative to other hospitals in the near future.
