Communicable Disease

Control of communicable disease in Jersey County is handled by our Public Health Nurses and our Environmental Health Director. Our main goal is to keep the public safe by preventing the spread of communicable disease. Reports are received from physician’s offices, labs, schools, daycares, food establishments and long term care facilities. Concerned citizens also call in with complaints. The Communicable Disease Nurse and Environmental Health Director may do an investigation jointly depending on the disease and the area involved within the community.

Pathogens are everywhere in a person’s daily environment. They enter our body through breathing, ingested food or water, open wounds, sexual contact or contact with contaminated objects. The General Communicable Disease Control Program provides investigation, surveillance, and prevention to protect the health of the public. When a communicable disease is reported, an investigation begins. The goal is to stop the spread of the disease and hopefully find the source. Hand washing is the most important thing we can do to decrease the spread of communicable diseases. Washing fruits and vegetables before slicing, and disinfecting cutting boards and countertops is important in decreasing the spread of food borne illness. Not eating and drinking after others and not sharing razors and toothbrushes decreases the incidence of many communicable diseases

Traveling to other countries often brings increased risk of infectious diseases, even when staying in first-class accommodations. Some of these diseases can last weeks or months, and some are potentially fatal. Travel Health consults are offered to help prepare you for safe and healthy travel and provide you with the resources needed in the event you should become ill. Consults are offered free of charge. Your consultation may include:

• Required, recommended and U.S.routine immunizations

• Personal assistance determining which vaccines and why

• Specific advice about health risks based on itinerary and activities

• Education about food, beverage and insect safety

• Assistance in determining malaria risk and prevention medications

• Altitude Illness prevention

• Safety and security tips

• U.S. State Department advisories

• Suggested travel health supplies, credible online resources and more