Conclusion

Conducting enhanced surveillance and operational research on a novel pathogen at the start of a pandemic is challenging yet important. The SARS-CoV-2 Unity Studies conducted in the African region have proven that these studies are possible to implement at short notice in a robust manner including in low resource settings, and that the resulting information garnered from them is crucial for shaping policy and practice 5,13.
Investigators should consider the lessons learnt during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic fur future surveillance efforts and operational research. Several of the methodological challenges faced can be overcome through preparedness actions such as the development of new tools, robust planning and practice. Countries need to develop resilient well-coordinated and fit-for-purpose surveillance approaches that address priority surveillance objectives not met by current systems for respiratory viruses of epidemic and pandemic potential, that can be sustained or adapted during an event for pandemic preparedness and effective response 14.