COMMUNICABLE DISEASE

Communicable diseases, sometimes called infectious diseases, are illnesses caused by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites which may be spread from one person to another or from animal to person.

The Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department engages in active surveillance, investigation and follow-up of reportable communicable diseases to protect the public health. In communication with physicians, hospitals, and labs, we work to educate the public on disease prevention.
Form 44151 - Acute and Communicable Disease Case Report (Rev.08/08) fillable Word Document or PDF .
Zika Virus
Zika virus is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito, but can also be transmitted through sexual interaction or from mother to child.  The mosquitoes that can become infected with and spread Zika virus live in many parts of the world, including parts of the United States. The species of mosquitoes that can transmit Zika virus are not found in Wisconsin. 
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). HCV is spread primarily by exposure to human blood from an infected person. It can also be spread sexually or from an infected mother to her infant. Today, most people become infected with HCV by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. Before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began in the United States, HCV was also commonly spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)
STDs are diseases that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. These include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and HIV. Many of these STDs do not show symptoms for a long time, but they can still be harmful and passed on during sex.
Norovirus
Noroviruses (previously called Norwalk-like viruses or SRSVs) are a group of viruses that cause acute gastroenteritis in humans, often referred to as "stomach flu." However, norovirus is completely unrelated to influenza, a respiratory virus.
Animal Bites/Rabies
Although animal bites are not officially notifiable by state statute, they occur commonly and carry a risk of infection with various disease agents. Animal bite wounds should be washed immediately and thoroughly with soap and water. A health care provider should be promptly consulted about the possible need for antibiotic treatment and tetanus vaccination. Because of the possibility of rabies virus transmission, the biting animal should be captured if it is safe to do so. In the case of an owned domestic animal, information on the owner and location of the animal should be obtained.

Contact Information
Contact Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department
Port Washington Office: 262-284-8170
West Bend Office: 262-335-4462
During off-hours, animal bite calls may be handled by local law enforcement personnel.

Health Professionals
Clinicians should know that reporting animal bites for the purpose of public health follow-up is not considered a confidentiality breach, nor is it a violation of HIPAA regulations. Bite reports can be made to the local public health department or to law enforcement.

Animal Bites Fact Sheet
Communicable Disease Resources
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