Zika virus was initially discovered in 1947 when the Rockefeller Foundation was conducting research on Jungle Yellow Fever in Rhesus Monkeys. The virus earns its’ name from the Zika Forest located in Uganda where the study was taking place. In 1952, Zika virus was discovered in humans both in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania.
Health
Health
Microcephaly
The biggest concern with Zika virus is the connection to the virus in pregnant women and microcephaly. Microcephaly is a birth defect where a baby's head is smaller than expected when compared to babies of the same sex and age. Babies with microcephaly often have smaller brains that might not have developed properly. Learn more on CDC's website.
Please note: Information about Zika virus is constantly changing as researchers learn more about it. For the latest information visit cdc.gov/zika.
Communicable diseases are contagious illnesses that can be spread from person-to-person, through contact with animals or insects, or through contaminated food or water. The Communicable Disease staff work to detect, investigate, manage and prevent communicable diseases and disease outbreaks. Staff collects, analyzes and reports disease data, and provides public health consultation and education for health care providers and the public.
Referral Forms
Please complete a referral form if your patient has:
- Symptoms consistent with TB and/or is suspected of having active TB disease (e.g. abnormal chest x-ray)
- A positive TB skin test (TST) or TB blood test (Interferon-Gamma-Release Assay - IGRA)
- Risk factors for TB
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that is caused by a bacterium (or germ) called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The TB germs circulate in the air when a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, speaks, or sings. These germs can stay in the air for several hours, depending on the environment.
The role of the Health Department’s Emergency Responders is to determine whether an incident presents a serious threat to public health and/or the environment and, if so, to ensure that mitigation and remediation are conducted in accordance with state and local public health laws and regulations. If the incident is deemed a serious threat, LCDHE will serve as the lead agency for ensuring compliance with applicable state and local public health laws and regulations.
Petroleum or Chemical Spills:
Contact the Health Department if:
Provider / Parent: Request Support from HCP
About HCP
HCP is here to help families with children who have special health needs. We give you helpful information and connect you to services and resources, so it's easier to find the support you need. Special health needs can include physical, emotional, or behavior-related challenges. At HCP, we understand that every family is different.
We work to make sure the water you drink is safe and free from harmful chemicals and germs.
