Implementation and success factors from Thailand’s 1-3-7 surveillance strategy for malaria elimination
Cheewanan Lertpiriyasuwat, Prayuth Sudathip, Suravadee Kitchakarn, Darin Areechokchai, Sathapana Naowarat, Jui A. Shah, David Sintasath, Niparueradee Pinyajeerapat, Felicity Young, Krongthong Thimasarn, Deyer Gopinath, Preecha Prempree
Abstract
Thailand's National Malaria Elimination Strategy 2017-2026 introduced the 1-3-7 strategy as a robust surveillance and response approach for elimination that would prioritize timely, evidence-based action. Under this strategy, cases are reported within 1 day, cases are investigated within 3 days, and foci are investigated and responded to within 7 days, building on Thailand's long history of conducting case investigation since the 1980s. However, the hallmark of the 1-3-7 strategy is timeliness, with strict deadlines for reporting and response to accelerate elimination. This paper outlines Thailand's experience adapting and implementing the 1-3-7 strategy, including success factors such as a cross-sectoral Steering Committee, participation in a collaborative regional partnership, and flexible local budgets. The programme continues to evolve to ensure prompt and high-quality case management, capacity maintenance, and adequate supply of lifesaving commodities based on surveillance data. Results from implementation suggest the 1-3-7 strategy has contributed to Thailand's decline in malaria burden; this experience may be useful for other countries aiming to eliminate malaria.