Preventing and controlling the spread of disease is a major focus of public health work. From influenza, hepatitis, tuberculosis, and coronavirus (COVID-19), outbreaks of infectious diseases have an extraordinary impact on a person’s wellness as well as community health. The Cayuga County Health Department works with healthcare providers, laboratories, hospitals, state health and laboratory departments, and other partners to share information needed to monitor, control, and prevent reportable disease spread throughout the community.
Reporting of suspected or confirmed communicable diseases is mandated under the New York State Sanitary Code (10NYCRR 2.10). Physicians have primary responsibility for reporting. However, school nurses, laboratory directors, daycare center directors, healthcare facilities, state institutions, and other individuals/locations providing community health services are required to report communicable disease cases to the Health Department.