Detecting Mosquito-borne Diseases in Indonesia

Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya possess non-specific symptoms. Hence, making a clinical diagnosis only through symptoms recognition is challenging. A supporting diagnostic test is needed to verify the diagnosis. However, a reliable and easy-to-use diagnostic test for Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya is not always available. In this project, we explored a local healthcare context for implementation of a technology under development by the Applied Science Faculty at TU Delft. The vision of the new technology is creating a smartphone-based Rapid Diagnostic Test that can detect Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. We explored the local healthcare context in Indonesia and draw out the essential characteristics that can match with the future usage scenarios.

A Case study in Indonesia

A case study was performed in Indonesia to understand the current situation of local healthcare context; the diagnostic and treatment process, the available tests, and also the potential users. In Indonesia, Dengue is rarely diagnosed through a specific diagnostic test due to the affordability of the Diagnostic test. Commonly, the healthcare professionals prescribe a complete blood count test instead of a Dengue antigen detection test because it provides a general understanding of the patient's condition. However, for nurses and midwives, understanding the result from Blood Count is not easy and accessible. Thus, it seems relevant to provide a quick definitive result at the early stage of infection.

Strategy and Opportunity Mapping for the Technology Development

Based on the field research, three steps of product innovation were suggested; First, a simple yet robust product for early detection. Second, a smart diagnostic that can detect and monitor patients progress. Finally, a smart product with data analytic function that can provide insights for policymakers and researchers. A strategic roadmap with three horizons was developed to visualise each step in more detail.