Abstract
The scale, complexity and short time-scale of the Brucellosis Eradication Scheme made the development of a comprehensive information system imperative. The Brucellosis Information System is derived from three data bases, a computerised record of test results obtained in the Central Brucellosis Laboratory and manually maintained records of problem-herd investigations and within-herd records of routine testing. Reports derived from manual records are presented in a standardised format. The computer record consists of codes representing the type of test performed, the date of test, the number of animals tested and the number of reactors.
The information system reports include both regular periodic reports produced from the data base by standard retrieval programs or reports generated on request requiring manual retrieval or a specific retrieval program. The reports are tailored to the needs of the Head Office management staff, regional and district controllers.
Reports describing the tests done and their results are produced quarterly and annual reports show the current status of herds, the number of herds which have changed status, and the patterns of test results such as the reactor cattle and reactor herds as a function of the number of tests and the herds accredited at each repeat test.