Communicable Disease Reporting

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​What is a communicable disease?
A communicable, or infectious, disease is an illness spread by coming in contact with an infected someone or something. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites are the most common organisms causing communicable disease. These illnesses can be passed from person (or animal) to person through direct contact with body fluids, ingesting contaminated food or water, breathing contaminated air, or by the bite of an infected animal.

​Disease investigation and prevention of outbreaks are among the highest priorities of the Tuscarawas County Health Department due to the fact it is an important part of protecting the public's health. Our goal is to prevent and reduce transmission of all communicable disease through a system of surveillance, control and education. Certain diseases, called reportable communicable diseases are required by law (Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 3703-3-01 through 3701-3-31) to be reported to the local health department. Our Epidemiologist contacts the primary care provider, patient, and/or family in an attempt to determine how the disease was contracted and to teach how to prevent further spread of the disease.


The Infectious Disease Control Manual (IDCM) and Communicable Disease Rules 3703-3-01 through 3701-3-31 of the Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) are designed to be a reference for health departments, hospitals, laboratories and physicians in Ohio for guidance on who should report, when to report, how to report, and where to report confirmed and suspected infectious diseases. The Tuscarawas County Health Department (TCHD) has complied a self-study tool to familiarize individuals in our community who may have to report such infection or disease. 

Contact Us:
(330) 343-5555 x131 or x181
You may report a communicable disease by contacting us at 330-343-5555 x132 or x189 or completing the form below.

    Communicable Disease Reporting Form 
    The person reporting the disease should place their first and last name in the boxes below. In the comment section please place patient name, date of birth, disease being reported, and contact number for the physician or medical office.                   All information is forwarded to a secure email and is confidential.

Resources

2021 Communicable Disease Annual Report

For previous Communicable Disease Annual Reports, visit our Current Reports Page and scrolling to the bottom: