Epidemiology and Infectious Disease

Program Overview

The Southeast Health District (SEHD) epidemiology and infectious disease programs investigate and conduct surveillance for diseases and other health conditions that affect residents throughout the 16-county district. By monitoring and responding to disease events like HIV, influenza, tuberculosis, vaccine-preventable diseases, outbreaks, and biological attacks, appropriate interventions and control measures can be implemented to lessen the health effects on the community and improve the overall health status in the community.

Program activities include:

Conduct active, passive, and syndromic surveillance to detect diseases and adverse health conditions
Investigate reports of acute diseases and outbreaks and recommend appropriate prevention, control, and/or treatment measures
Conduct data analyses and disseminate information from surveillance systems
Provide guidance for healthcare professionals, facilities, and other agencies and organizations regarding disease prevention, control, and testing

Disease Reporting

All Georgia physicians, laboratories, and other health care providers are required by law (OCGA 31-12-2) to report patients with the conditions listed under Notifiable Disease Reporting Requirements. Both laboratory confirmed and clinical diagnoses are reportable within the specified time interval.

To report a disease or outbreak:

Online: State Electronic Notifiable Disease Surveillance System (SENDSS)
Phone: 912-285-6022
After hours: 1-866-PUB-HLTH (1-866-782-4584)
Fax: 912-338-5309
Mail completed Case Report Form in an envelope marked CONFIDENTIAL to:
Southeast Health District
Office of Infectious Disease
1115 Church Street – Suite C
Waycross, GA 31501