Disease Prevention and Control

The Health Officer serves in accordance with the California Health and Safety Codes, which authorize the Health Officer to take measures to prevent the spread of disease to preserve and protect the public health. The Health Officer works with local, state, and federal agencies to take necessary preventive measures to protect and preserve the public's health. The Communicable Disease and Epidemiology units and the Public Health Laboratory are authorized by the Health Officer to take action in events having public health significance. In addition, the Health Officer serves as Medical Director of the CHDP Program and medical advisor to the various other Health Department programs.