Purpose: The International Severe Acute Respiratory and emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) is a network of networks that was established in 2011 by investigators from around the world to ensure a rapid research response to outbreaks of pandemic potential. By bringing together multidisciplinary research groups in more than 110 countries across different resource settings, ISARIC has supported research responses to Ebola in West Africa, MERS-CoV in the Middle East and elsewhere, and more recently, the Zika outbreak in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Methods & Materials: ISARIC activities have aimed to fulfil its main objectives, which are to (i) develop standardised and globally accessible research tools, (ii) set up platforms for data collection and data sharing, (iii) establish a primed infrastructure to epidemic responses, and (iv) enable research in resource poor settings.
Results: ISARIC is working with WHO and the IDAMS consortium on a Clinical Characterisation Protocol/Natural history protocol for Zika. CRFs for Zika have been harmonised in collaboration with other research networks (PREPARE, REACTing and IDAMS), and adapted by PAHO as part of the harmonisation process for Zika surveillance.
ISARIC has established a data collection platform for SARI and VHFs to maximize the likelihood that data are prospectively and systematically collected, shared rapidly in a format that is easily aggregated, tabulated and analysed across many different settings globally. Now ISARIC is collaborating on a Zika digital image data platform.
ISARIC members have developed a standardised ISARIC/WHO Clinical Characterisation Protocol for Severe Emerging Infections; and a global short term incidence study on SARI - SPRINT-SARI (open to recruitment).
Making capacity building a reality with new networks forming around our initiatives e.g. a new East African network being led by Rwanda.
Conclusion: ISARIC's role is bringing many disciplines and networks together to reach a common goal in preparedness and response to emerging/re-emerging infections and continuing to play a facilitator's role with key partners such as WHO, PAHO, NGOs, IANPHI, local networks and individuals.