Responsive population-based cohorts as platforms for characterising pathogen-and population-level infection dynamics for epidemic prevention, preparedness and response

Establishing population-based cohorts is indispensable for effective epidemic prevention, preparedness and response. Existing passive surveillance systems face limitations in their capacity to promptly provide representative data for estimating disease burden and modelling disease transmission. This perspective paper introduces a framework for establishing a dynamic and responsive nationally representative population-based cohort, with Germany as an example country. We emphasise the need for comprehensive demographic representation, innovative strategies to address participant attrition, efficient data collection and testing using digital tools, as well as novel data integration and analysis methods. Financial considerations and cost estimates for cohort establishment are discussed, highlighting potential cost savings through integration with existing research infrastructures and digital approaches. The framework outlined for creating, operating and integrating the cohort within the broader epidemiological landscape illustrates the potential of a population-based cohort to offer timely, evidence-based insights for robust public health interventions during both epidemics and pandemics, as well as during inter-epidemic periods.