Infectious Disease

EPIDEMIOLOGY/INFECTIOUS DISEASE UNIT

The Epidemiology unit conducts surveillance (close watch) for the occurrence of reportable diseases and other health conditions.

By determining the who, what, when, where, how, and why related to communicable diseases and health conditions, they are able to implement appropriate intervention and control measures to lessen the disease impact on community health. When a communicable disease outbreak occurs, immediate action may be needed to prevent or control a situation.  In the case of chronic diseases or injuries, more sustained activities may be required to prevent their occurrence or reduce their severity.

Some of the diseases most frequently investigated include, but are not limited to: tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis A, B and C, bacterial meningitis and sexually transmitted infections (STDs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV. In addition, the Epidemiology unit collaborates with other departments by investigating suspected food-related illnesses and addresses community concerns about emerging diseases, such as COVID-19 and Monkeypox.

The Epi unit also manages the District Tuberculosis (TB) Program, which provides care for persons with active TB, those who have been exposed to TB and persons with Latent TB infection.
Contact investigation is included.

The Ryan White programs for financially eligible persons with HIV are also managed through the Epidemiology Unit. These programs provide case management services, outpatient medical benefits,
medications and transportation assistance for eligible program clients.

Community education is another large portion of the Epidemiology unit’s function. Our Nurses and Health Educators provide training in dealing with communicable diseases prevention and
control to other health care professionals, teachers, the general public and specific groups such as senior citizens or high-risk groups such as persons in alcohol and other drug treatment programs.