Epi Info Companion for iPhone

Mobile app for on-the-go epidemiologic data

Epi Info Companion is a free iOS app built to support field data collection, basic analysis, and local dataset management on mobile devices. Created to pair with the desktop Epi Info 7 package, the application brings common epidemiologic tools to a tablet or phone so teams can work while away from a central computer.

Data capture and local dataset management

Key capabilities for data collection and storage include:

• Securely bundling and encrypting datasets kept on the device
• Importing survey or collection forms sent by email
• Creating new case or record entries directly on the device
• Retrieving and modifying previously saved records

These functions let users gather, update, and protect data in environments with intermittent connectivity.

Built-in analysis and summary statistics

The app provides a selection of quick analytic tools suitable for field use:

• Calculation of means and related summary statistics
• Generation of contingency tables (2x2 and larger MxN) with associated metrics
• Simple frequency tabulations for categorical data

These routines are intended for rapid, preliminary analyses to guide immediate decision-making.

StatCalc port and touch-friendly input

A suite of StatCalc calculators has been adapted for the iOS interface so users can enter values via touch and receive instant results. This makes common epidemiologic and biostatistical computations accessible without launching a separate desktop program.

Viral hemorrhagic fever contact-tracing workflow

The app includes a dedicated workflow to support contact tracing for Viral Hemorrhagic Fever (VHF) investigations:

• Load a contacts dataset related to a case or cluster
• Choose individual contacts to follow up
• Record follow-up observations and status updates
• Save follow-up entries back into the local table
• Send follow-up data to a central database using SMS when required

This feature set is designed for rapid, field-oriented surveillance and reporting.

Integration and recommended contexts

Epi Info Companion is intended as a mobile complement to Epi Info 7 on desktop. It’s most useful for public health workers, outbreak investigators, and field teams who need lightweight data collection and immediate, basic analysis while operating away from a primary workstation.

Quick takeaway

For teams needing a free, portable solution to collect, secure, analyze, and transmit public health data, Epi Info Companion offers a compact toolset tailored to on-the-ground epidemiologic work.