Disease Emergencies

Infectious diseases pose a significant threat to public health and safety. As demonstrated by the recent incidences of SARS and Avian Influenza, even small outbreaks can have widespread repercussions for everyday people, health care professionals, farmers, travelers, businesses and the economy.Masked laboratory technician

Many infectious diseases are preventable and are controllable. Prevention and control of infectious diseases involve collection of accurate assessment data (such as surveillance data for specific conditions), outbreak detection and investigation, and development of appropriate control strategies. These activities require close collaboration between clinical providers (especially infection-control practitioners within hospitals), laboratories, state and local health departments, and federal agencies.

Some infectious diseases that could affect Stearns County are listed below. Click on the links for more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture:

Diseases affecting humans

Influenza (Flu)
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Smallpox
Tuberculosis

Diseases affecting humans and animals

Avian Influenza
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (Mad Cow Disease)
West Nile Virus

Disease affecting animals

Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Preparedness

What to do before a disease outbreak

  1. Receive immunizations as advised by health officials. According to your risk factors, these may include a flu vaccine, hepatitis and tetanus. See the Minnesota Department of Health's list of vaccine-preventable diseases. 
  2. Take commonsense measures to prevent disease outbreaks: wash hands frequently, cover your cough and avoid contact with blood and bodily fluids, and stay home when you are sick. 
  3. Reduce your exposure to mosquitoes by using insect repellant and covering bare skin. 
  4. Maintain good health by eating a balanced diet, exercising and getting adequate sleep.

Response

Pandemic treatment site from years pastWhat to do during a disease outbreak

Follow the instructions of health professionals. They will offer detailed information on the outbreak, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and how to prevent transmission.

For More Information:

Call Stearns County Public Health at 320-656-6942 or visit these links:

Office of Emergency Preparedness - Minnesota Department of Health
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)