Oman launches the “Rased” smart disease surveillance platform to improve outbreak prediction

OMAN—The Ministry of Health (MoH) has unveiled a national strategy alongside a smart surveillance platform designed to predict and contain disease outbreaks before they escalate, signaling a major step forward in the country’s public health preparedness.

Officials announced the initiative during a launch ceremony held under the patronage of Dr. Said bin Harib Al Lamki, Under-Secretary for Health Affairs, with senior health leaders and specialists in attendance.

The newly introduced National Strategy for Vector Surveillance reflects Oman’s commitment to strengthening health security in line with Oman Vision 2040.

Notably, the strategy shifts the country away from traditional response-driven systems toward a proactive, data-led model.

It focuses on early detection through scientific analysis of field indicators, enabling authorities to anticipate risks rather than react to them.

Digital transformation at the core

During the event, Dr Zakariya bin Yahya Al Balushi, Director-General of the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasized that digital transformation is central to modern health surveillance.

He explained that predictive systems now play a critical role in identifying potential outbreaks before they occur. As a result, healthcare systems can respond faster and more effectively.

Moreover, he stressed that epidemiological surveillance has become a strategic necessity rather than an optional tool.

He also highlighted the importance of collaboration across health, environmental, and municipal sectors, noting that this integrated approach reflects the “One Health” concept.

This model recognizes the connection between human health, animal health, and environmental conditions.

Introduction of the “Rased” platform

A key highlight of the launch was the introduction of the “Rased” programme, a smart national platform that connects field teams with decision-makers in real time.

The platform streamlines data collection and accelerates transmission, ensuring that critical information reaches authorities without delay.

Importantly, “Rased” integrates epidemiological, entomological, and climate data, allowing officials to translate complex indicators into immediate operational decisions.

This capability enables faster containment of potential health threats before they develop into full-scale outbreaks.

Enhancing coordination and readiness

Following the announcement, Dr. Al Lamki toured an accompanying exhibition showcasing the platform’s capabilities.

The displays included interactive demonstrations of “Rased,” advanced field surveillance technologies, and integrated data systems combining environmental, demographic, and health information.

Recent regional health reports have increasingly highlighted the growing role of AI-driven surveillance tools in outbreak management, particularly in response to climate-sensitive diseases such as dengue and malaria.

In this context, Oman’s adoption of integrated digital systems aligns with broader global trends to improve early warning mechanisms and strengthen cross-sector coordination.

Through this initiative, the Ministry of Health aims to reduce response times, optimize resource allocation, and enhance national readiness.

The platform also supports more efficient coordination between institutions, ensuring that public health interventions remain timely and targeted as disease patterns evolve.