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Bureau of Epidemiology and Public Health Informatics
Charles Hunt, State Epidemiologist and Director
1000 SW Jackson, Suite 210
Topeka, KS 66612-1366
Phone: 1-877-427-7317
FAX: 1-877-427-7318
Email: EpiHotline@kdheks.govAvian Influenza Information Hotline (800-566-4518)
The role of the epidemiologist has expanded beyond the study of disease patterns in populations to include an emphasis on prevention. Epi Services works to sustain a healthy environment for Kansans. Our section is involved in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and education. We also provide technical support to local and private health care providers on infectious diseases, non-infectious diseases, environmental health issues, preventive care information, and guidance on animal and human health issues such as treatment of potential rabies exposures. We collaborate with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by weekly updates of nationally notifiable diseases that have occurred in our state.
The Bureau of Public Health Informatics provides reliable public health statistics. Vital records and the other public health data represent the basis for agency programs to improve birth outcomes, decrease infant mortality, identify mortality trends, decrease the spread of infectious diseases, and determine the health status of Kansans.
We are proud to offer subject matter expertise and technical support to local health departments, the private health care community and the general public by providing phone coverage 24 hours each day - 7 days a week. Epidemiologic Services Section can assist with:
- Disease Outbreak Investigations
- Disease Reporting Requirements
- Health Education Opportunities
- Public Health Interventions
Infectious disease surveillance is a process of collecting, summarizing, and analyzing data to provide public health assurance. Routine disease monitoring, disease outbreak and other public health emergencies all rely on surveillance and data management.
The Surveillance Section maintains the KS-EDSS electronic surveillance system. KS-EDSS replaces the HAWK system and offers new features for public health surveillance.
