‘Only in this way can we be prepared for both known and new infectious diseases’
Good and up to date data are crucial for effectively combating infectious diseases and protecting public health. Endowed professor Susan van den Hof and her team are committed to improving data methods so that infectious diseases can be detected early and addressed effectively.
What is the core message of your inaugural lecture and why did you choose this topic?
‘Only with good and timely data, policymakers and health professionals can respond quickly and effectively to infectious diseases. By systematically collecting, analysing and applying epidemiological data, outbreaks can be detected earlier, better understood and addressed more effectively, from data to action. This requires investment in modern data infrastructure, flexible surveillance methods and collaboration between healthcare and academia. Only in this way can we be prepared for both known and new infectious diseases and limit their impact on society.’
What are some of the key research lines that you and your team focus on?
‘Key research lines focus on developing and improving surveillance for the goals mentioned earlier. We do this through improved data infrastructure, the development and use of new surveillance sources, linking data sources and improved analytical techniques. In addition, I work on topics such as developments in vaccination coverage and vaccine effectiveness. I am also involved in outbreak investigations and research into post acute consequences of infections, such as post covid.’
What role do education and healthcare play in your vision of this field?
‘Education is important for transferring knowledge about infectious diseases, epidemiology and the importance of data and surveillance to new generations of professionals. Collaboration with universities and medical centres is crucial for research and innovation. Healthcare plays a role as a source of data and as a partner in detecting and controlling outbreaks. Here too, good collaboration is essential in order to be prepared for new challenges.’
What is something from recent years that has really stayed with you?
‘The coronavirus pandemic has been very impressive in many respects. In my work, the challenges in obtaining, linking and interpreting data have particularly stayed with me. This also includes the rapid translation of data into policy advice and action. Alongside the frustration this caused, the enormous commitment of colleagues to deal with these challenges and contribute as effectively as possible to combating the pandemic has made a strong impression on me.’
What can patients and society notice as a result of your work?
‘Patients and society benefit from faster detection and control of outbreaks. They also benefit from better prevention, for example through vaccination programmes, and from limiting the impact of both existing and new infectious diseases. When we are invisible, we have done our job properly.’
If we are allowed to dream, where do you hope the field will be in 10 to 15 years?
‘The hope is that data on infectious diseases can be shared quickly, fully and securely between healthcare and research, so that everyone benefits.’