Mission

To conduct thorough assessment, reporting, and documentation of health threats, so as to support evidence-based intervention and prevention.

Overview

Surveillance is the ongoing systematic collection, analysis, interpretation and dissemination of disease information. Epidemiology is the study of how often these diseases occur in different groups of people and why.

The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the Department of Public Health is responsible for the investigation, prevention and control of communicable diseases in The Bahamas. The Unit consists of a medical epidemiologist, nurse epidemiologist, surveillance nurses and clerical staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Epidemiology?
   The study of the causes, frequency and control of disease in a group of people.
2. What is Surveillance?
   The ongoing, systematic collection and analysis of data to produce information that will lead to appropriate action being taken to prevent and control infectious disease.
3. Can I receive treatment for a communicable disease at the Epidemiology & Surveillance Unit?
   Usually no. Care and treatment are usually given at your nearest Community Health Clinic.
4. Is information on communicable diseases available to Family Island residents?
   Yes. Please visit your nearest Community Health Clinic.
5. Where is the Epidemiology & Surveillance Unit located?
   The ground floor of the Ministry of Health Building, Meeting Street.

For more information, please contact:

Poncianna Hill Building
Meeting Street
P. O. Box N-3730
Nassau, N.P.
The Bahamas
Tel. (242) 502-4737
Fax.(242) 502-4874
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays