AMoMo is a regional initiative led by PAHO for the early detection of mortality anomalies. Through process standardization and the use of unified statistical methodologies, it seeks to transform heterogeneous information from each country into a system of comparable metrics, facilitating a coherent regional vision that streamlines evidence-based strategic decision-making.
The network is builds on the SARInet Plus infrastructure and integrates epidemiological, laboratory, and vital records data to improve countries' ability to detect and respond to excess mortality, whether from seasonal respiratory epidemics or pandemics. It arises in response to gaps identified in the region, which highlight the need to incorporate complementary sources of information, such as hospital management systems and civil registries, to existing respiratory virus surveillance systems.
AMoMo builds on the solid track record of the EuroMOMO network, from which statistical models and methodologies have been adapted to the public health context of the Americas. Implementation is carried out in collaboration with its technical team to ensure correct application of the models and alignment with EuroMOMO standards for mortality surveillance.
The network is currently in the pilot implementation phase.
Justification
Respiratory diseases caused by viruses such as influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), represent a significant burden of morbidity and mortality in the Americas. According to WHO estimates, seasonal epidemics can cause up to 645,832 influenza-related deaths each year, highlighting the serious impact of these viruses on public health.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the urgent need for timely, real-time mortality monitoring systems that can capture both the direct and indirect effects of epidemics. These data have been critical in guiding the response of health systems and in assessing excess mortality during periods of high viral circulation.
In this context, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in collaboration with its Member States and in partnership with the European EuroMOMO project, is promoting the creation of the AMoMo network. This network aims to strengthen the surveillance of mortality from respiratory diseases in the region through standardized and internationally comparable methodologies.
Objectives
Countries
Methodology
The AMoMo network estimates excess mortality by comparing observed deaths with expected deaths based on historical mortality patterns. It uses a statistical model that considers trends over time, seasonal patterns, and delays in reporting deaths, providing a realistic estimate of how many deaths would be expected under normal conditions each week.
Once excess mortality from all causes has been estimated, an analysis is conducted to determine how much of that excess can be attributed to respiratory diseases. This analysis incorporates additional information on the circulation of respiratory viruses, such as influenza or COVID-19, allowing for a more specific assessment of the impact of these events on population mortality and supporting public health decision-making.