Communicable Disease
Information about the Communicable Disease Program
Contact Macey Kuhring, RN or Madelyn Damery, MSN, RN at the Health Department, (217) 253-4137, for more information concerning testing, reporting, or treatment of communicable diseases.
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What is a communicable disease?
A communicable disease is any disease that can be transmitted by infectious bacteria or viral organisms from one source to another.
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What is the communicable disease program?
The communicable disease program tracks disease in Douglas County and provides follow-up including counseling and referral services.
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Why is the CD Program important?
When there is a report of a communicable disease, it is important to find out whether or not it is a single case and whether or not there is a risk of spreading it to others. For individuals who have a communicable disease, the program helps provide education and referral services. For others who may be exposed, the risks are lowered by medical intervention referrals and education.
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How does the CD Program Work?
Any communicable disease program is made up of many parts. These include:
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Enforcement of health regulations
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Referrals for laboratory procedures
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Referrals for medical treatment
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Follow-up for active cases
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Health education
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Counseling
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Reporting of data
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Prevention
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What are some examples of communicable diseases?
A few examples of what are considered to be communicable diseases are:
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Varicella (chicken pox)
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Measles
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Meningitis
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Hepatitis
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HIV/AIDS
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Chlamydia
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Pertussis (whooping cough)