Communicable Disease Intro.
Sep 26, 2005 11:33 AM
Introduction
A disease is a condition of the body that impairs normal functioning.
A communicable or infectious disease is a disease capable of spreading to others.
The New York City Department of Health (NYCDOH)
- Investigates individual cases of communicable diseases
- Ensures that households or other close contacts receive preventive treatmentInvestigates disease outbreaks
- Collects and analyzes data on disease trends
- Educates the public and medical community regarding disease prevention and treatment
- Monitors drug resistance patterns for certain diseases
- Monitors emerging infectious diseases
- Provides active surveillance for waterborne diseases and malaria
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Detect and investigate health problems
- Conduct research to enhance prevention
- Develop and advocate sound public health policies
- Implement prevention strategies
- Promote healthy behaviors
- Foster safe and healthful environments
- Provide leadership and training
Reportable Diseases
Article 11 of the New York City Health Code requires that a number of disease and conditions, which have the potential to adversely affect the health of the general public are reported. The code requires that physicians, hospitals and institutions, clinical laboratories and other designated professionals report these diseases to the New York City Department of Health. Reports are not required from patients or from the general public.
Outbreaks
Section 11.03 (b) of the NYC Health Code defines a suspected outbreak among 3 or more persons of any disease or condition and of any unusual manifestation of a disease in an individual should be reported to the health department immediately.
