Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are caused by contact with germs (bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi) either directly; being in contact with a sick person, or indirectly; from contact with contaminated items such as food or frequently touched surfaces. People who have been in contact with germs that cause infectious diseases can be sick with symptoms or show no symptoms at all.

Prevent and Control the Spread of Diseases

The goal of the Infectious Disease Control Team is to prevent and control the spread of diseases through:

• Inspections of institutional food premises; including long-term care homes, retirement homes, hospitals and childcare centres 
• Monitoring and responding to outbreaks in institutions and the community
• Follow-up of people with diseases of public health significance such as tuberculosis, the flu (Influenza) and hepatitis
• Inspections of personal services settings like tattoo and piercing shops, nail salons and barber shops
• Providing education and consultation services to local agencies, schools and the public about infection prevention and control

If you have questions about Infectious Diseases and would like to speak with a health professional, please call 519 663-5317.