Epidemiology (Epi) is a branch of science that deals with the control and prevention of communicable disease (reportable diseases) in the community.  The Epidemiology Unit of the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department (SBCPHD) is a crucial component in the following service areas:

• Investigating, intervening and monitoring the incidence/occurence of illnesses in Santa Barbara County. Investigation includes identifying an agent, source, time, mode of transmission and persons involved.

• Monitoring reportable diseases reported by health care professionals in Santa Barbara County and assisting them in managing new and emerging infectious diseases. 

• Providing education and consultation to health care professionals, community groups and individuals is an important function of the epidemiology and disease control team. 

• As well as reporting disease prevalence to the public.

Download a copy of the Reportable Disease List, for the types of diseases that must be reported to the Public Health Department or visit the Disease Control and Prevention page to learn more on how to report a case.

** 2012-2013 Seasonal Influenza Report - Santa Barbara County **