Communicable Disease Surveillance

Communicable disease surveillance is a multi-component system that monitors and analyzes data that includes – but is not limited to – demographic, geographic, and disease/condition-specific information. Accurate identification and timely reporting are integral parts of successful disease control, enabling public health agencies to:

  • identify contacts who may be infected or other individuals at risk for infection,
  • determine the incidence and prevalence of disease in a specific area of the state,
  • assist physicians and hospitals in evaluating illnesses in their patients and communities, and
  • assist the public in making better decisions regarding their health and lifestyle.

Successful communicable disease surveillance enhances control efforts; such as developing prevention/intervention strategies and policies, and responding to events involving potential exposure to communicable disease.

The goal of DHSS disease surveillance is to maintain an integrated statewide surveillance system for communicable, zoonotic, and environmentally induced health threats and to disseminate this information rapidly to customers.

A communicable disease can be reported by using the disease case report form, CD-1. To complete a form electronically or to download the CD-1, click here. There are complete directions on the second page of the form. If you are unsure whether a disease or condition is reportable, click here to see the most recent official copy of the reportable disease list or consult the two-page reference list.

Effective April 30, 2005, all varicella (chickenpox) cases are required to be reported, not just those cases that resulted in death. Specific elements identified to make up the report are: Patient’s Name, Date of Birth, County of Residence, Date of Report, Other Associated Cases, Disease Name, Onset Date, Severity of Illness, and Vaccination History for Varicella.

Additional guidance for both reporters and Local Public Health Agency staff to assist in case reporting and entry into MOHSIS are provided below: