Epidemiology is the central science of public health. As such, epidemiology provides the scientific input that shapes public health policy, program directions and activities. The Florida Department of Health in Polk County Epidemiology conducts surveillance for the occurrence of diseases and other health conditions that affect Polk County residents. By determining the who, what, where, when, how, and why related to these diseases and health conditions, appropriate interventions, and control measures can be implemented to lessen their health impact. When an outbreak occurs, immediate action may be needed to prevent or control a situation.
The Epidemiology section carries out a number of activities to identify diseases, describe health conditions, assess the health of Polk County, and develop recommendations to control diseases and improve the overall health status in the county. These include:
- Conduct active and passive surveillance to detect diseases and adverse health conditions
- Investigate reports of acute diseases and outbreaks
- Recommend appropriate prevention measures, treatment, and control
- Monitor and investigate reports of unusual health conditions
- Conduct data analyses and disseminate information from surveillance systems
- Provide guidance for healthcare professionals, facilities, and other agencies and organizations regarding disease prevention and control
- Respond to disease-related inquiries from residents, healthcare providers, and others
Influenza
The 2024-2025 flu season has begun. Flu activity is currently at low levels throughout Polk County. To guard against getting the flu, residents are reminded to:
- Get the flu shot if they haven’t already.
- Practice frequent handwashing with soap and water.
- Sneeze or cough into a tissue or elbow.
- Stay home for at least 24 hours after a fever has subsided, if they have experienced flu-like symptoms.
- Contact their health care provider if they are persons with a chronic illness or who are pregnant and suspect their illness might be influenza.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Polk County follows RSV activity seen in Southwest Florida. Consequently, RSV season in Polk County is considered to begin in September and continue until April of the following year.
Diseases and Conditions
Identify and understand the risk, transmission, symptoms, and treatments.
Disease Reporting Information
Health care and laboratory providers are required to report conditions of public health importance to the Florida Department of Heath.