Epidemic Intelligence and Epidemiological Intelligence: a scoping review

Abstract

Objective: To map and synthesize the concepts of Epidemic Intelligence (EI) and Epidemiological Intelligence (IEPI), identifying their characteristics, applications, advances, and challenges described in the literature published between 2005 and 2025. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the BVS. Full-text publications explicitly addressing the concepts of EI or IEPI were included. Results: A total of 1,056 records were identified, of which 29 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies focused on EI (90%), predominantly from Europe, whereas IEPI was addressed in only three Brazilian studies. Two conceptual approaches to EI were identified: an operational perspective, encompassing the full public health surveillance cycle applied to Public Health Emergencies (PHEs), and an informational perspective, focused on data collection and analysis for the early detection of PHE-related events. IEPI was predominantly described as an institutional infrastructure designed to support decision-making and protect population health. Common characteristics across both concepts included the integration of indicator-based and event-based surveillance, multidisciplinary collaboration, technological innovation, and timely data analysis. Reported advances involved artificial intelligence, text mining, interoperability, and digital surveillance platforms. The main challenges included information noise, fragmented information systems, data overload, and shortages of qualified human resources. Discussion: EI and IEPI share important operational features but differ in their strategic focus and purpose. IEPI is primarily oriented toward institutional and governmental decision support in public health, whereas EI is mainly focused on the early detection of and response to public health emergencies.