Overview
Illnesses caused by a micro-organism and transferable to new individuals are “infectious”. Other terms you might hear to describe these diseases are “contagious” or “communicable”. There are many ways that infectious diseases may be spread, such as person-to-person, by animal contact, through food you eat, or by biting insects, and many have the potential to create a serious public health emergency.
Prepare
- Vaccinate! Getting vaccinated greatly lowers your chances of severe symptoms when sick with COVID-19, flu, and other illnesses. Click here for more information about vaccines/immunizations.
- Go to your primary care physician regularly for check-ups to stay healthy.
- Know what diseases are prevalent in your community and how you can protect yourself.
- To prevent bug bites, have bug spray, wear long sleeve/pants, and remove standing water from areas in/around your home.
- If traveling, ask your doctor if there are any prevalent diseases you should be aware of and what precautions you should take. Click here to look up a destination on the CDC website to see disease prevalence.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Clean and disinfect areas regularly.
Protect
- Use bug spray and wear long protective clothing.
- Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Wear a mask or isolate when your are feeling sick.
- Make sure to clean vegetables thoroughly and cook meat to the recommended temperature.
Recover
- Follow the guidelines listed on the CDC website if you have been exposed to an infectious disease
- Follow up with your doctor or seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen
