Epidemiology is a crucial part of public health that helps us understand how diseases and health issues affect groups of people. It looks at what causes these diseases, how they spread, and the patterns in which they occur. By studying who is at higher risk, where outbreaks happen, and when diseases are more likely to spread, epidemiologists play a key role in creating ways to prevent illnesses and improve the overall health of communities.
Reportable Diseases
Rappahannock Area Health District monitors the occurrence of reportable and emerging diseases, as well as suspected outbreaks of illness. Investigating these diseases/conditions help prevent the spread, protect communities, and guide public health interventions. Healthcare providers and laboratories are required by law to legally report those to their local health departments.
To learn more about each disease, visit our Disease Facts Sheets for more information on each reportable disease.
To report a communicable disease to the Health Department electronically, please submit the report via VDH’s Confidential Morbidity Report Portal (Epi-1)
Outbreaks
What is considered an outbreak? An outbreak occurs when the number of cases of a disease, injury, or health condition exceeds the expected level within a specific population, geographic area, or time period. It can result from infectious agents, environmental exposures, or toxic substances and may range in scale from localized clusters to widespread epidemics.
To report a suspected outbreak please complete the Suspected Outbreak Reporting Form
Learn more about our:
Surveillance and Investigation Programs
Reportable Disease Morbidity Surveillance
Resources for Schools:
Communicable Disease Reference Chart for Schools
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Program Information
District Epidemiologist
Dr. Ovidiu Cotea
Email: ovidiu.cotea@vdh.virginia.gov
