Epidemiology
What is Epidemiology?
Epidemiology is the study of diseases and health-related events and how they spread within specific populations. Epidemiologists investigate factors such as the causes of diseases, trends and patterns, as well as risk factors. This information helps in controlling and preventing disease, healthcare planning, and understanding the impact of various health interventions.
Epidemiology is a cornerstone of public health, and shapes policy decisions and evidence-based practice. Epidemiologists help with designing studies, data collection, statistical analysis, and reporting and presenting results.
What We Do
We conduct surveillance and collect data. This data is closely analyzed, looking for patterns and trends in disease and illness. Our focus is on high risk communities and vulnerable populations to ensure they are informed and equipped with the services they need. We use our data to:
- Create reports and presentations on the most prominent public health issues
- Forecast and prepare for emerging public health issues
- Reduce the spread of disease
- Guide our outreach and provide guidance and support to community partners, businesses, city officials, organizations, schools, and residents
- Report certain diseases to state and national centers, as required by law
- Shape health policy
The New Haven Health Department strongly promotes the health equity lens, so that ALL residents of New Haven can have access to health services, information, and education and in turn, reduce risk of disease and live a healthy lifestyle.
Reportable Disease Information
View data on reportable diseases and infections such as Hepatitis, Rabies, and Zika Virus.
COVID-19 Positive Case Reporting
Please use these links to report positive cases of COVID-19.
Clusters or outbreaks in businesses, organizations, daycares, and LTCFs
Reporting Guidance & Support
To alert public health authorities of reportable diseases, please call the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) at 860-509-7994 during normal business hours, Monday-Friday, 8:30AM to 4:30PM. During off-hours, weekends, and holidays, please call 860-509-8000 and ask for the epidemiologist on call.
After contacting DPH, please call the New Haven Health Department at 203-410-5922 regarding logistics and next steps for reportable diseases.