Survey Toolbox for Aquatic Animal Diseases

Survey Toolbox for Aquatic Animal Diseases, written by Angus Cameron and published by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), addresses this challenge by providing a comprehensive guide to conducting active surveillance through scientifically rigorous yet practical disease surveys. Moving beyond the limitations of traditional passive reporting systems, this monograph offers methodologies to gather reliable, high-quality information on disease distribution and production impacts, which is essential for effective health management, policy-making, and international trade.

Designed for program planners, trainers, and field operational staff, the Toolbox combines a detailed technical manual with a suite of specialized tools intended to simplify complex epidemiological tasks. These tools are now available online at EpiMundi’s ShinyEpiTools.

The text covers the full spectrum of survey activities, from fundamental random sampling principles and data collection to specific designs for estimating prevalence, incidence rates, and demonstrating freedom from disease. By focusing on cost-effective, rapid techniques suitable for resource-constrained environments, this resource bridges the gap between theoretical epidemiology and practical fieldwork, empowering aquatic animal health professionals to design and implement robust surveillance programs.

The tools presented in this book will be valuable for anybody who needs to collect reliable information about aquatic diseases or production. The structure of the book allows it to be used on three different levels - for planners, trainers and field operational staff. The language used is designed to be easily understandable by people speaking English as a second language.