Content Information
A. Purpose of Surveillance and Reporting
- To identify source of infection and possible modes of acquisition.
- To connect infected individual with available free treatment from CDC.
- To ensure that close contacts, primarily family, are examined for possible disease and treatment is initiated.
B. Laboratory and Healthcare Provider Reporting Requirements
Iowa Administrative Code 641-1.3(139) stipulates that the laboratory and the healthcare provider must report. The preferred method of reporting is by utilizing the Iowa Disease Surveillance System (IDSS). However, if IDSS is not available, the reporting number for IDPH Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology (CADE) is (800) 362-2736; fax number (515) 281-5698, mailing address:
Iowa HHS, CADE
Lucas State Office Building, 5th Floor
321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
Postage-paid disease reporting forms are available free of charge from the Iowa HHS clearinghouse. Call (319) 398-5133.
Laboratory Testing Services Available
The University of Iowa State Hygienic Laboratory (SHL) performs acid-fast bacillus smear testing, which will detect M. leprae. Although it is not possible to grow M. leprae in culture, further testing of specimens may be coordinated between SHL and the CDC. For more information, call the SHL Mycobacteriology department at (319) 335-4500, or visit: www.shl.uiowa.edu/
C. Local Public Health Agency Follow-up Responsibilities
Follow up is required. Make sure household and close contacts are assessed for disease. Periodic examination of household and other close contacts is recommended at 12-month intervals for at least 5 years after last contact with an infectious case.