Communicable Disease
Communicable diseases are illnesses that spread by the passing of viruses, bacteria, or fungi. There's a variety of ways that people can become sick with these types of illnesses. Viruses can be transmitted by people or animals. Being around someone who is sick, contacting an infected surface, breathing in airborne particles, or getting bitten by an infected animal or insect can make someone sick. The type of illness and a person's overall health contribute to how sick someone will be. Certain diseases can be prevented with vaccines, while others without a vaccine rely on infection prevention methods like proper hand washing, covering a cough, staying home when sick, and using protective gear like masks, gloves, or condoms.
Historical Spotlight on Health
In Rock County, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) have fluctuated over several years (2008-2023) and have progressively increased since 2008. Combined STI rates for chlamydia and gonorrhea peaked in 2020. From 2020 to 2023, STI rates have fallen by 37.8%. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the top STIs in Rock County. Chlamydia has the highest rates of infection.
Throughout the years, Rock County’s clinics and healthcare systems have assured access to resources, testing, and treatment options for people who have an STI. In 2018, the First Choice Health Center closed due to lack of funding after 46 years in operation.¹ By continuing to increase access to healthcare services through transportation, health literacy, education, resources, and supplies and reviewing the financial impacts of prescription drugs and healthcare service costs, Rock County may begin to see improvements in STI rates.
Healthcare Resources: https://community-action.org/health/first-choice-health-center/
*View the data on the Communicable Disease dashboard under the “Sexually Transmitted Infections” tab.