Communicable diseases refer to diseases that are spread by direct contact with an infectious agent.

Modes of Transmission:

• Airborne (tuberculosis, measles)
• Fecal oral (Hepatitis A)
• Direct skin to skin contact (scabies, infectious mononucleosis)
• Sexual (gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B)
• Direct inoculation (syphilis-mother to fetus, Hepatitis B- tranfusion)
• Insect or animal bite (malaria, lime disease, rabies)
• Spores through puncture wound (tetanus)

Our Role in Communicable Disease:

• Communicable disease (CD) management in Tehama County is coordinated by the field Public Health Nurse in consultation with the Medical Health Officer, with guidelines from the State Department of Health and regulations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Identification
• Investigation
• Follow-up
• Education

Communicable Diseases are Preventable!

• Develop good hand washing habits
• Use universal precautions when handling bodily fluids - both on and off the job
• Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Do not share food, eating utensils, combs, toothbrushes or razors
• Keep your immunizations for communicable diseases up to date