The Development of a Model for Surveillance and Prevention of Food and Water-Borne Diseases in Primary Schools in Saraburi Province.

Abstract

           This research and development study aimed to examine the existing problem conditions, develop a model, and evaluate the outcomes of a surveillance and prevention system for foodborne and waterborne diseases in primary schools within Saraburi Province. The study was conducted in three distinct phases using a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative methodologies. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select a group of 56 participants. The research instruments comprised a school food sanitation standards evaluation form containing 7 categories and 20 criteria, a health record form for tracking illnesses transmitted through food and water, and an in-depth interview guide. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the paired t-test, and content analysis. The findings from Phase 1 revealed that prior to the intervention, the school met the food sanitation standards for only 60.00% of the criteria (12 items), with major deficiencies identified in waste management, wastewater disposal, and the general cafeteria environment. In Phase 2, a comprehensive surveillance model was developed, encompassing 9 core systems: sanitation evaluation, food and water monitoring, vector control, food handler health screenings, illness tracking, risk communication, and a systematic reporting mechanism. In Phase 3, following the implementation of the surveillance model, the school successfully met all 20 food sanitation criteria, reaching a 100% compliance rate. Furthermore, the mean sanitation score demonstrated a statistically significant increase (p = .002). No biological contamination was detected in the food or water supplies, and zero cases of diarrheal diseases were reported among students or teachers throughout the entire follow-up period. The results of this study clearly demonstrate that the newly developed surveillance model is highly effective and can serve as a sustainable prototype for upgrading school food sanitation systems in other educational settings.