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patti beauchamp
Communicable Disease (443) 523-1740
Enfermedades Transmisibles
H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Information
Communicable Disease Surveillance & Education
By definition, communicable disease is any infectious disease that can be transmitted from person-to-person, animal-to-person, or animal-to-animal. The goal of the Health Department is to stop the spread of these infections through public education, disease surveillance, and implementation of control measures. Information on a specific disease can be found at the Center for Disease Control website on Health Topics: http://www.cdc.gov/health/diseases.htmFoodborne Illness Clinical Investigation
All cases of reported foodborne illness are investigated by the Health Department. A thorough food history is completed to determine the causative organism. The nursing department works closely with the environmental department to track the source of infection and implement control measures to stop the spread of the infection.Rabies Pre & Post Exposure Treatment
Rabies is defined as an acute viral disease of the nervous system that is fatal when undetected. It can be transmitted to humans through the saliva and spinal fluid of the infected animal. If a county resident is exposed (animal bite, scratch or indirect exposure) to a potentially rabid animal, they are referred for medical evaluation for post-exposure rabies treatment when appropriate. As a preventive measure the Health Department offers pre-exposure vaccination to those residents who are at increased risk of coming into contact with rabies. People who fit into the high-risk category include but are not limited to animal control workers, hunters, veterinary, animal shelter employees and environmental health workers.Click here for information on prevention of rabies.
Tuberculosis Testing & Treatment
Tuberculosis is a bacteria that can cause infection and disease in any part of the human body. However, when tuberculosis attacks the lungs and the throat, it can be spread when the person coughs, sneezes or sings. The top priority of the Health Department is to assure that a person with active TB is completely treated which is accomplished by providing Directly Observer Therapy at no charge. Next is the prompt identification and screening of TB contacts and other high risk reactors. Mantoux skin testing (PPD) is offered to the public at a minimal charge. Appointments are encouraged. County residents who are infected (have a positive PPD) are offered preventive therapy at no charge in an effort to prevent active disease in the future.