Epidemiology

Epidemiology is a branch of science that studies the incidence, distribution, and control of diseases in a population. Our Epidemiology team works to protect and promote the health of the residents of McLennan County.

Our Epidemiologists:

• Handle reportable diseases and conditions.
• Maintain accurate morbidity data for the county.
• Actively investigate unusual disease occurrences to prevent further outbreaks.
• Monitor and assess the county to create a profile of chronic disease issues within McLennan County.
• List of Notifiable Conditions

Health Alerts/Advisories/News Updates

Health Alert

November 3, 2025

Increase in Pertussis Cases in Texas

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is reporting a significant increase in pertussis, or whooping cough, cases in 2025. According to provisional data, Texas has had more than 3,500 reported pertussis cases through October this...

News Updates

May 7, 2026

DSHS statement on Texas residents who were on board the MV Hondius

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has notified DSHS that two Texas residents were passengers on the MV Hondius, a ship that experienced an outbreak of hantavirus while traveling in the Atlantic Ocean. The passengers left the ship and...

March 19, 2026

DSHS launches low-cost spay and neuter program for dogs and cats

The Texas Department of State Health Services launched a new sterilization program for dogs and cats, providing grant funds to 38 applicants to conduct these procedures across the state. The Texas Spay and Neuter Program received $13 million from the...

January 27, 2026

State health officials remind the public to stay vigilant as travel-related cases of measles are announced in West Texas

The Texas Department of State Health Services is announcing three confirmed cases of measles in non-Texas residents who spent time in Reeves and Ward counties. Below are some possible exposure locations and times for the community's awareness.

November 10, 2025

Don't pass the flu with the stuffing this Thanksgiving: Get a shot now to protect you and your family throughout the holiday season

As the state heads further into respiratory virus season, the Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging everyone to add flu shots to their Thanksgiving shopping lists. Doses of flu vaccine are widely available at public health clinics...

Health Advisory

May 1, 2026

Health Advisory: Test patients with symptoms consistent with Cyclospora infection

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is preparing for the annual Cyclospora outbreak season that runs from May to August. In 2025, Texas had more than 500 reported cases of cyclosporiasis, compared with 413 cases in 2024 and 788 in...

Texas DSHS News and Health Alert Archive