Ian Appling

The New Hanover County Pandemic Operations Team added Kansas native Ian Appling as the county’s first epidemiologist, according to a news release.

“Ian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the public health world that will be critical in helping us navigate where things stand now with COVID and any future community or global outbreaks,” said Pandemic Operations Manager Jon Campbell in the release. “He has a lengthy background in global health initiatives and will work to collect data and analyze trends that will help our team develop strategies to reduce the impact of diseases here in New Hanover County.” 

Prior to taking the job in New Hanover County, Appling worked as an epidemiologist with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. He received his undergraduate degree from Kansas and his mastern's degree in public health from Southern Mississippi.

As part of his public and global health background, Appling helped develop and operate a women’s health clinic in India focused on cervical cancer screenings. He also served as a Navy sonar technician for four years.  

Established by the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners in December 2022 through American Rescue Plan Funding, the Pandemic Operations Team has worked to provide vaccination and testing resources to the community, as well as outreach and education on COVID-19.