Communicable Disease Investigation, Surveillance & Case Management

Introduction
Communicable diseases, often referred to as contagious diseases, are illnesses caused by germs such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.  Sometimes the illness is not due to the germ itself, but rather the poison that the germ makes after it enters a human body. 

The Public Health Nurse is available to:
  • Explain what the disease is, how it may spread, what tests are performed to diagnose a disease, what treatments are currently used, and how to stop the spread of the disease
  • Follow up (in confidence) with persons who may have been exposed to certain diseases
  • Report certain diseases to the State (required by law)
  • Refer person(s) with certain diseases to specialists when necessary
In Wisconsin, there are more than 75 reportable diseases which, by law (WI Administrative Rule Ch. DHS 145), the Health Department is required to report and follow up on.

More Information
For more information, call (715) 395-1304 and ask to speak to a Public Health Nurse.

For Providers


TOPICS OF INTEREST

Influenza Resources:
Fight the Flu:
The flu is caused by influenza viruses that spread easily from person-to-person. The virus infects the nose, throat, and lungs.Anyone can get the flu. People who have pre-existing medical conditions, those who live in long-term care facilities, and children younger than 5 are at greater risk for more severe illness from the flu. However, it is important to remember that even young and healthy people can also become very sick.

The Flu can be spread at any time, so it is important to take precautions year-round.
Click here for more information

Flu Vaccine Facts
A Guide for Parents

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) refers to the disease caused by infection with Avian Influenza Type A viruses. These viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other birds and animals. Avian flu viruses do not normally infect humans. More information...

Lyme's and other Tick Diseases There are many diseases that can be spread by ticks in Wisconsin, causing significant illness in some people and animals.  Symptoms of tickborne diseases may include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, and sometimes rash. Contact your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms, or contact your vet if your pet displays signs of illness.  Follow the prevention tips below to reduce your chances of being bitten by a tick.

Ticks 101: Click here for more information.
 
Fight the Bite: Tick and Mosquito Information: Click here for more information.

Tickborne Disease Risk in WI: Click here for more information.

Tick Identification Guide: Click here for Identification Guide.

Tick Surveillance: Click here for more information.

Monkeypox: Click here for more information.