Social Sciences and Epidemics
This collection collates reports from the ‘Social Science in Epidemics’ series. In this series different aspects of past disease outbreaks are reviewed in order to identify social science ‘entry points’ for emergency interventions and preparedness activities. This evidence will come together to determine tangible ways to better address the social, political and economic dynamics of epidemics; and to ensure that interventions build on the social and cultural resources of the communities they aim to support.
Case Studies
Strengthening Health Information Surveillance: Implementing Community-Based Surveillance in Sudan
This case study explores the 2018–22 implementation of a national community-based surveillance (CBS) programme in Sudan. The programme was designed to meet critical needs of the existing health surveillance system. It aimed to empower communities to detect and contain public…
Tools
Citizen Ethnography in Outbreak Response: Guidance for Establishing Networks of Researchers
This guidance outlines the steps for designing and implementing ethnographic research which is led by citizens. It explains what citizen ethnography is and then sets out what should be considered throughout the process of working with networks of citizen researchers,…
Case Studies
Enhancing Community Engagement Through Data Collection: Controlling the Cholera Epidemic in Mozambique
Case study focusing on post-cyclone cholera response activities
Tools
Social Science Research for Vaccine Deployment in Epidemic Outbreaks
Why is social science vital for effective vaccine trials?
Tools
Rapid Appraisal of Key Health-Seeking Behaviours in Epidemics
How to identify health-seeking behaviours
Tools
Rapid Anthropological Assessments in the Field
Exploring data collection methods and question modules
Tools
Rapid Remote Context Analysis Tool (RR-CAT) in Epidemics
Methodologies for use during remote context analysis
Case Studies
Real-Time Ebola Community Feedback Mechanism
Case study examining misinformation and mistrust in the Ebola epidemic
Case Studies
Understanding Sociocultural Dynamics to Enhance Control of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) Epidemics in Kenya
Case study addressing the issue of food shortage and economic losses
Case Studies
Balancing Burial Rituals with Public Health Demands During the 2014 Guinean Ebola Epidemic
Case study addressing resistance to Ebola response measures
Case Studies
Learning the Lessons of Crisis: Mobilising Knowledge During a Global Health Emergency
Case study addressing issues around knowledge sharing, focusing on the example of Ebola