Communicable Disease Reporting and Investigating
All Coos County physicians, health care providers and laboratory workers are required by law to report certain diseases and conditions to Coos County Public Health. There are over 50 diseases and conditions that must be reported in Oregon. Not all infectious diseases (for example, the common cold, MRSA, and chickenpox) are reportable. Some of the most common reportable diseases in Coos County are chlamydia, hepatitis C, salmonella, campylobacter, and giardia.
When a case of a communicable disease is reported to the Health Department, the public health staff investigate to identify who may have been exposed, or the source of the disease, e.g., if food or water is suspected. The exposed persons (or contacts) are referred to health care for any immunizations or medications that could prevent illness. Some immunizations or medications, such as for tuberculosis, are available through the Health Department. The communicable disease staff work quickly to prevent the spread of disease and educate the public about prevention.
Reporting for Health Professionals
All health care providers and labs must report certain diseases and conditions to Coos County Public Health. Some cases and suspected cases of certain illnesses or conditions must be reported to the Health Department according to specified timelines and are grouped into the following reporting categories:
- immediately,
- within 24 hours,
- within one working day (a working day is defined as Monday through Friday),
- within one week of the diagnosis.
Lena Hawtin
Phone: 541-266-6700
Fax: 541-888-8726 (confidential medical fax number)
For reporting of communicable disease after regular business hours or on the weekend, please call 541-435-4525.
Important Links:
The communicable disease reporting guidelines can be found on the Oregon State Public Health website: Guidelines
Clinician Reporting Form: Reporting Form