Communicable diseases, also called infectious diseases, are illnesses that pass from person to person. Good health habits are important in helping your body keep up its defenses against communicable disease as well as maintaining your overall health and sense of well being.
When you protect yourself against communicable disease you are also protecting your family, co-workers and community. The following are good health habits to practice yourself and teach your children:
Good Personal Hygiene - Wash your hands well with soap and water
- before eating and fixing food
- after using the toilet, changing a diaper, cleaning the toilet
- after sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose
Do not put fingers in your mouth or eyes.
Good Nutrition - Choose a balanced diet every day from the basic 4 food groups - fruits/vegetables, protein/meat, dairy, bread/cereals.
Rest - Get enough sleep each night to feel refreshed.
Exercise - Exercise in moderation every day. If you have a physical problem, check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Regular Check-Ups - See your doctor or health clinic for your routine immunizations and check-ups. With regular check-ups it is more likely that a health problem will be found before it becomes too serious.
Today's immunizations have wiped out many communicable diseases. But these diseases can reappear and cause serious problems if all of us do not get our necessary immunizations. Keep up-to-date records of immunizations for yourself and your children. Check with your doctor or the Department of Health about the recommended immunization schedule. Do not skip or put off any immunization unless your doctor approves. You will have to provide proof of your child's immunizations before entry into the school system. You may also need your immunization records if you are exposed to a communicable disease at the time of a disease outbreak or for travel abroad.
When Sick With A Communicable Disease, Stay Home
Many communicable diseases spread quickly. Avoid passing the disease on to others. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and throw used tissues in a trash can.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Immunization Program for information about immunizations and vaccinations and their schedules.
If you have questions or concerns about a communicable or infectious disease, contact the Baltimore County Department of Health at 410-887-2724, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or e-mail diseasecontrol@baltimorecountymd.gov.
Revised June 25, 2007
Courthouse 