Epidemic Intelligence Service

The Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) is a program of the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) responsible for investigating and responding to public health emergencies.

Pronunciation

Epidemic: /ɪˌpɪdɪˈmɪk/ Intelligence: /ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ Service: /ˈsɜːrvɪs/

Etymology

The term "Epidemic" is derived from the Greek words "epi" meaning "upon" and "demos" meaning "people". "Intelligence" comes from the Latin "intelligere" which means "to understand". "Service" is from the Old English "sērvice" meaning "the act of serving".

Function

The EIS is composed of "disease detectives" who investigate public health threats domestically and internationally. These include infectious diseases, natural disasters, and other public health emergencies. The EIS officers are often the first line of defense in preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring public health.

Related Terms

Epidemiology: The study and analysis of the distribution, patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations.
Public Health: The science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities.
Infectious Disease: Disorders caused by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: The national public health agency of the United States.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Epidemic Intelligence Service
Wikipedia's article - Epidemic Intelligence Service

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Epidemic Intelligence Service