Reporting & Investigation of SARS

Table of Contents

A. Purpose of Surveillance and Reporting

  • To assess the magnitude of the disease in different areas and among different risk groups.
  • To identify outbreaks as soon as possible.
  • To monitor for the emergency of SARS in new areas and new risk groups.
  • To implement control or prevention. 

B. Laboratory and Healthcare Provider Reporting Requirements

Iowa Administrative Code 641-1.3(139) stipulates that the laboratory and the healthcare provider report any suspected or confirmed cases of SARS. The reporting number for IDPH Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology (CADE) is (800) 362-2736. If calling after business hours, call the Iowa State Patrol Office at (515) 323-4360 and they will page a member of the on-call CADE staff.

C. Local Public Health Agency Follow-up Responsibilities

Case Investigation

  • Case investigation of SARS disease in Iowa residents will be directed by IDPH, Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology (CADE).
  • Following notification of IDPH, the LPHA(s) may be asked to assist in completing the case investigation.  Contact CADE for proper forms.  Interviewing the case and others who may be ill to provide pertinent information will help in completing forms.
  • Contact tracing will be needed and people assessed as soon as possible, along with initiation of isolation or quarantine, if applicable.