Decision-Making Models for Efficient Outbreak Response: A Management-Orientated Approach to Dengue Control in Andhra Pradesh, India

Dengue remains a serious health challenge across India, and Andhra Pradesh faces repeated outbreaks that put a heavy strain on hospitals, clinics, and communities. Combating this disease isn’t just about tracking cases—it’s about making quick, smart decisions to control its spread effectively. This study looks into different decision-making approaches that can help improve how Andhra Pradesh responds to dengue outbreaks, making actions faster and more targeted. Using a mix of existing epidemiological data, interviews with health officials and community leaders, and simulated scenarios, the research explores how tools like Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Decision Tree Analysis can assist in choosing the best strategies. These models help prioritise interventions such as resource distribution, vector control efforts, and public awareness campaigns, especially when dealing with uncertainties like limited resources or unpredictable case surges. The findings indicate that integrating these decision-making frameworks into public health planning can foster better coordination among policymakers, healthcare workers, and local authorities. This improved coordination can lead to quicker responses, more effective use of resources, and ultimately, a reduction in dengue cases and their impact on communities. The study emphasises that combining management science tools with traditional epidemiology isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for strengthening outbreak preparedness. Plus, these approaches can be adapted to tackle other communicable diseases in India and similar settings worldwide, paving the way for smarter, more resilient public health systems. How to cite this article:Sripathi M, Leelavathi T S, Durga Y K, K Susmitha, Babu A M. Decision-Making Models for Efficient Outbreak Response: A Management-Orientated Approach to Dengue Control in Andhra Pradesh, India. J Commun Dis. 2025;57(3):67-72. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202569