This message is being sent to introduce Local Health Departments (LHDs) to the Outbreak & Investigation Module feature in the Communicable Disease Reporting and Surveillance System (CDRSS).  

The Communicable Disease Service (CDS) and LHDs have long worked collaboratively on the investigation of communicable disease outbreaks. While outbreaks have been reportable to CDS by LHDs for years, there has been no centralized database that allows LHD and CDS staff to work collaboratively on both individual outbreaks, and to view outbreak and investigation data in aggregate.?? 

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Beginning on August 1, 2022, LHDs will be able to view and edit outbreak (noted by E#) and investigation (noted by I#) information directly in CDRSS. Users will find that features of the Outbreak & Investigation Module are similar to existing functions in case management and should find the module straightforward to navigate. The Regional Epidemiology Program will conduct short instructional sessions during upcoming regional meetings and will develop additional training materials as needed.  

Refer to the attached memo for additional information on getting started in the module, and look out for additional communications and training from your CDS epidemiology team soon!

Questions about the module may be directed to Julia Wells at julia.wells@doh.nj.gov. For technical questions or problems with account access, please submit a CDRSS Help Desk ticket at: https://njdeptofhealth.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/3.