Infectious Disease

Disease investigation and prevention of outbreaks are among the highest priorities of Wood 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 infectious disease through a system of surveillance, control and education. Certain communicable diseases are required by law to be reported to the local health department. Our epidemiologists contacts the healthcare provider, patient and/or family to determine how the disease was contracted and also instructs how to prevent further spread of the disease.

Foodborne Illness

There are more than 250 different foodborne diseases caused by different bacteria, viruses, parasites, toxins and chemicals. These different diseases have many different symptoms. However, the most common first symptoms are:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhea

If you think you or someone you know may have a foodborne illness, report it to the Wood County Health Department: Take this survey

You may also call 419-352-8402

What is a communicable disease?

An infectious or communicable disease is an illness spread by coming in contact with someone or something that is infected. Bacteria, viruses and parasites cause infectious diseases. 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.

What diseases must be reported?

The list of reportable diseases in Ohio is located here.

Click here if you think you might have food poisoning.

Who must report infectious diseases?

  • Health-care providers (physicians, hospitals, infection control professionals)
  • Laboratories