SC Public Health | Communicable Diseases

Communicable Diseases

Disease investigation and prevention of outbreaks are among the highest priorities of Sandusky County Public Health due to the fact it is an important part of protecting the public’s health. Our goal is to prevent and reduce transmission of all infectious diseases through a system of surveillance, control, and education. Certain communicable diseases are required by law to be reported to the local health department. Our epidemiologists will contact the healthcare provider, patient and/or family to determine how the disease was contracted and instruct how to prevent further spread of the disease.

What is a communicable disease?

An infectious or communicable disease is an illness spread by coming in contact with someone or something that is infected. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites cause infectious diseases. These illnesses can be passed from person (or animal) to person through direct contact with bodily fluids, ingesting contaminated food or water, breathing contaminated air, or by the bite of an infected animal.

What diseases are reportable?

A complete list of reportable diseases in Ohio can be found here.

How are diseases reported?

Laboratories, hospitals, physicians, and other health professionals send reports to the health department. Reports may be securely faxed to 419-334-6380.

The reporting form can be found here.

What does the health department do with the reports?

All disease reports are reviewed by the health department. Some disease reports are only for statistical purposes, but many require that we contact the person to try to determine the source of infection and prevent further spread. All reported information is kept confidential.