Comparing national infectious disease surveillance systems: China and the Netherlands

Background Risk assessment and early warning (RAEW) are essential components of any infectious disease surveillancesystem. In light of the International Health Regulations(IHR)(2005), this study compares the organisation of RAEW in China and the Netherlands. The respective approaches towards surveillance of arboviral disease and unexplained pneumonia were analysed to gain a better understanding of the RAEW mode of operation. This study may be used to explore options for further strengthening of global collaboration and timely detection and surveillance of infectious disease outbreaks.