Sparta doctor awarded for participation in statewide flu study

SPARTA n Doctor Raymond DiPaolo a pediatrician practicing with Skylands Pediatrics in Sparta and a member of the Medical Staff at Newton Memorial Hospital, has been recognized for his work in understanding and controlling the epidemiology of influenza in Sussex County. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study of influenza-like illnesses, Sentinel Surveillance Program, is monitoring Sussex County. The County Division of Health works with local physicians who report directly to CDC and/or the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services Communicable Disease Service. The information is used to track and trend influenza-like activities as well as to plan for appropriate vaccine development and utilization in future years. During the 2004-05 flu season, Dr. DiPaolo was recognized for his participation in the Sentinel Surveillance Program and a certificate was issued to the doctor in appreciation of this work. During the 2005-06 influenza season, physicians will continue participate in the Sentinel Surveillance Program. The information provided will assist the CDC in a better understanding of the influenza-like illnesses in the age and geographic distribution throughout Sussex County.