Non-Reportable Diseases
NON-REPORTABLE DISEASES
Non-Reportable Diseases
Some diseases are not deemed reportable to the Local Medical Officer of Health, however can still be the
cause of illness in persons exposed to them.
Note: These diseases may also be the cause of outbreaks in your camp (e.g. Norovirus), and in
such instances should be reported to the health unit.
Included in this section:
Non-Reportable Disease Fact Sheets
• Adenovirus
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
• Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)
• Food Poisoning/Foodborne Illness
• Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
• Head Lice (Pediculosis)
• Impetigo
• Norovirus
• Pinworm
• Rhinovirus
• Ringworm
• Rotavirus
• Scabies
• Scarlet Fever
• Strep Throat
Reference: Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Recreational Camp Resource Binder.
HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Adenoviruses
What is it?
Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that infect the membranes (tissue linings) of the respiratory tract, the eyes,
the intestines, and the urinary tract. They account for approximately three to five per cent of acute respiratory
infections in children and up to two per cent in adults. Illnesses due to adenoviruses can occur throughout the
year, but are more common in late winter, spring and early summer. There are more than 50 subtypes of
adenoviruses.
What are the symptoms?
Depending on which part of the body is affected, the signs and symptoms of adenovirus infection vary.
Respiratory: fever, conjunctivitis (swelling/infection of the eyelids), sore throat, runny nose, congestion, and
cough.
Gastrointestinal: watery diarrhea, vomiting, headache, fever and abdominal cramps.
Who is at risk?
Adenoviruses can affect anyone. People with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to severe
complications of an adenovirus infection.
When do symptoms start?
Onset of symptoms ranges from two to 14 days for respiratory infections and three to 10 days for
gastrointestinal infections, after being in contact with the virus.
When is it contagious?
Adenovirus is contagious as long as symptoms are present.
How does it spread?
Adenovirus can spread from person to person through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of
infected people when they cough and sneeze, contact with objects soiled with discharge from the nose/throat
of infected people, or ingesting food or water contaminated with the virus.
How is it treated?
There is no treatment for adenoviral infections. Your health care provider may suggest treating the symptoms
with over-the-counter medications.
How can the spread of Adenovirus be reduced?
• Frequent hand hygiene.
• Keep shared surfaces such as countertops and toys clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, using your sleeve or disposable tissue.
What should I do if I get sick with Adenovirus?
• Stay home if you are ill, and follow the above measures to prevent the spread of infection.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
What is it?
Pink eye is an infection of the thin covering on the eye. Viruses and bacteria can cause pink eye.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include: red, itchy and painful eye(s), pus draining from eye(s), eye(s) sensitive to light, tears
are common, swollen eyelid(s), crusting of eyelid(s) during sleep.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get pink eye. Children under the age of five years are most often affected by bacterial
conjunctivitis.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms of pink eye usually start 24 to 48 hours after coming in contact with the virus/bacteria.
When is it contagious?
It is contagious as long as symptoms persist or until 24 hours after treatment is started.
How does it spread?
Pink eye spreads from person to person through direct contact with an infected person’s tears and/or
discharge from the eye(s). It can also be spread through coughing and sneezing.
How is it treated?
Antibiotic eye drops or pills may be prescribed by your health care provider. A warm compress applied to the
eyes may help relieve discomfort and assist with removing crust from the eyelids.
How can infection be prevented?
• Avoid contact with a person with pink eye.
• Practice thorough hand hygiene.
• Encourage others to cough/sneeze into sleeves or to use a tissue.
• Wash hands after touching affected eye or runny nose.
• Do not share towels or washcloths. Persons with pink eye should use paper towels until they are
completely better.
• Wash soiled pillowcases and bedding in hot soapy water.
What do I do if I get sick with pink eye?
• If you have symptoms see your doctor.
• Wash your hands well after contact with eyes or fluid from the eyes.
• Stay home until you have been on treatment for at least 24 hours. If treatment is not given, you should
talk to your health care provider about recommendations for returning to work or school.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)
What is it?
Fifth Disease is a mild viral disease caused by human parvovirus B19. It is sometimes called "slapped cheek
syndrome".
What are the symptoms?
Fifth Disease often begins with mild respiratory symptoms and may include a fever. There is usually a rash
that causes bright red cheeks, which gives a "slapped cheek" appearance. A lace-like rash on the body, arms
and legs may also be seen. The rash fades, but may recur for weeks when exposed to sunlight or heat.
Who is at risk?
Everyone is at risk of getting Fifth Disease, but it occurs more commonly in children. Most adults have been
exposed in childhood and have immunity. Individuals suffering from anemia, immunodeficiency, and pregnant
women may have a greater risk of complications from the disease. Pregnant women who are immune are
protected from getting the illness and therefore provide protection to the fetus.
When do symptoms start?
The symptoms can start anywhere from four to 20 days after coming into contact with the virus. It may take
two to three weeks for the rash to develop.
When is it contagious?
Fifth disease is most infectious before the rash even develops, and usually is not contagious once the rash has
appeared. When a person is infected with the virus they develop immunity which protect them against
Fifth Disease in the future.
How is it spread?
Fifth Disease is spread from person to person through saliva, sneezing and coughing. Fifth Disease occurs
most often during winter and spring months. Outbreaks frequently occur in children in elementary schools
and daycares.
How is it treated?
Fifth Disease is caused by a virus. There is no treatment.
How can it be prevented?
•
•
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and encourage others to do the same.
Use good hand hygiene after handling nose and throat discharges (i.e., after disposal of facial tissues
•
containing nose discharges).
Avoid sharing eating utensils.
•
•
Reduce person-to-person contact with those who have symptoms.
Those with chronic anemia or immunodeficiencies and pregnant women who have continued exposure
should see a health care provider.
What do I do if I get sick with Fifth Disease?
•
•
•
•
If your child has signs and symptoms of a respiratory illness he/she should be kept out of daycare/school
until symptom free.
Exclusion of individuals with Fifth Disease from school or daycare is not recommended as they are no
longer contagious once the rash appears.
If you or your child begins to develop symptoms, see your health care provider.
Pregnant women who are unsure of their immune status should see their health care provider if they
are exposed to a confirmed case of Fifth Disease
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Food Poisoning/Foodborne Illness
What is it?
Food poisoning is a general term that refers to enteric illnesses caused by eating food contaminated with
bacteria, viruses, and/or parasites.
What are the symptoms?
Possible symptoms of food poisoning include: nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever, chills,
weakness, and headache.
Who is at risk?
Everyone is at risk.
When do symptoms start?
There are many different organisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. Depending on which organism is
ingested, food poisoning symptoms may start anywhere from 30 minutes to three weeks after eating the
food. The most common types of food poisoning generally start within 30 minutes to 48 hours of eating the
contaminated food.
When is it contagious?
The contagious period will vary depending on the cause of the food poisoning.
How does it spread?
A person gets food poisoning by eating or drinking food that has been contaminated with bacteria, viruses
and/or parasites. Infected people can also be a source of the infection. Person-to-person transmission can
occur when the organisms are passed in the stool and make their way to another person on unwashed hands,
contaminating food or objects. The organisms are then ingested by another person, which can make them ill.
How is it treated?
Treatment will vary because many different organisms can cause food poisoning. Your health care provider will
discuss possible treatment with you depending upon the cause of your illness.
How can food poisoning be prevented?
Anyone who prepares food should be educated about proper practices in the cooking and storage of food and
personal hygiene. The World Health Organization has developed “Ten Golden Rules for Safe Food Preparation”.
They are:
1. Choose foods processed for safety.
2. Cook food thoroughly.
3. Eat cooked foods immediately.
4. Store cooked foods carefully.
5. Reheat cooked food thoroughly.
6. Avoid contact between raw food and cooked food.
7. Wash hands repeatedly.
8. Keep all kitchen surfaces clean and disinfect if required.
9. Protect food from insects, rodents and other animals.
10. Drink water (from wells, lakes and rivers) that has been properly treated.
What do I do if I get sick with food poisoning?
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the toilet.
• See your health care provider if symptoms are prolonged.
• If you are pregnant seek prompt advice from your health care provider.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Anyone with suspected food poisoning should stay off work or school until symptom-free especially those
working as food handlers, health care workers, daycare centre staff, and daycare attendees.
• Avoid preparing food for others while you are ill.
.
1-866-888-4577
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
What is it?
Hand, Foot and Mouth disease is a common childhood disease caused by enteroviruses, usually coxsackie
virus.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease include a mild fever for one to two days, followed by sores or
blisters in the mouth, on the palms, fingers, soles of the feet, and less commonly, on the buttocks.
Who is at risk?
Hand foot and mouth disease can affect anyone, but it most commonly affects children.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms usually occur three to five days after coming in contact with the virus.
When is it contagious?
It is contagious for as long as the symptoms are present. Hand, Foot and Mouth disease is most contagious
during the first week of illness. The virus can remain present in the stool for several weeks.
How is it spread?
Hand, Foot and Mouth disease spreads from person to person by sneezing/coughing or contact with saliva,
mucus and the stool of an infected person.
How is it treated?
Hand, Foot and Mouth disease is caused by a virus. There is no specific treatment.
How can it be prevented?
• Reduce close contact with those who have the symptoms.
• Wash articles soiled with nose and throat discharges, including toys, in soapy water.
• Wash your hands after handling discharges, soiled articles, and especially after using the toilet and before
eating or preparing meals.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and encourage others to do the same.
• Do not share eating/drinking utensils.
What do I do if I get sick with Hand, Foot and Mouth disease?
• If you think you or your child may have hand, foot and mouth disease contact your health care provider
for a full assessment.
• Wash your hands or use alcohol hand rub often.
• Limit close person to person contact.
• Wash articles soiled with nose and throat discharges, including toys, in soapy water.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze and cough.
• Do not share eating/drinking utensils.
1-866-888-4577
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O: 2009-06 R: 2012-06
www.hkpr.on.ca
HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Head Lice (Pediculosis)
Some Common Questions and Answers
What are head lice?
Head lice are tiny wingless insects that live on the hair of the head. They survive by feeding on blood from the
scalp. These insects lay eggs, called nits, which stick to the shafts of the hair very close to the scalp. The eggs
hatch in seven to 10 days. Eggs that do not hatch will be found further from the scalp as the hair grows.
Head lice do not fly or jump. Having head lice has nothing to do with cleanliness.
Head lice are not a major health concern. They are a nuisance but do not cause sickness or death.
How does someone get head lice?
A person can get head lice by having close head-to-head contact with someone who already has head lice or
by sharing hats, scarves, combs and brushes with an infected person. Head lice are most often found among
children between the ages of three to 10 years. You cannot get head lice from pets. As many as 12 million
people worldwide get head lice each year.
How do I check for head lice?
As lice feeding on blood cause itching, one of the first signs of head lice may be
frequent scratching of the head. Scratch marks may be seen on the neck and
scalp, and may look similar to a rash.
Adult lice are approximately one millimetre (1/8 inch) long, move quickly and are
hard to see. The nits (eggs) are easier to see and look greyish-white in colour and
are oval in shape. Nits can look like dandruff, but can’t be flicked off. They are
firmly attached to the hair close to the scalp.
Look for nits by parting the hair in small sections, moving from one side of the
head to the other. Check the hair thoroughly, especially close to the scalp. The
most common areas to see nits are behind the ears and around the nape of the
neck. Also, look at the top of the head and eyebrows. Be sure to use good
lighting when checking for lice. Check all family members as well.
How does someone get head lice?
There are treatments such as head lice shampoos, cream rinses or lotions that are available over-the-counter
without a prescription. Some products may not be suitable for very young children. Talk to your doctor or
pharmacist to select the product that is right for you. It is very important that only those infected with lice are
treated. As products may vary, be sure to follow the instructions for the product you choose. Take action
immediately, as treating head lice usually requires two treatments. The second treatment will need to be
repeated seven to 10 days following the first one to ensure that newly hatched lice are killed. Adult lice can live
on the head for up to 10 days, and in that time a female can produce 50 to 150 nits (eggs).
According to the Canadian Paediatric Society, removing nits is not essential to treatment, but may make it
easier to see new infestations. If your child attends a school or daycare, check with them to see if they have
a “No-Nit” policy, which may require that nits be removed before a child is allowed back to school.
over...
How can I control the spread of head lice?
In some cases prevention may not be possible. However, to lessen the chance of you or your family getting
head lice try the following:
• Discourage head-to-head contact and sharing of hats, scarves, hairbrushes and hair accessories
• Tie long hair back
• Check the heads of all family members and people in close contact to make sure everyone is free of nits
• Treat all infected family members at the same time
• Tell all close contacts of the person with head lice to check their heads. Also, tell a child’s teacher and/or
daycare.
• Wash any items that have been worn or used on the head in hot, soapy water and/or use the hot setting of
the dryer. Place items that are not washable in a plastic, airtight bag for at least 10 days, or have them dry
cleaned. If necessary, discard infected items.
• Extra house cleaning is not necessary, but it may be wise to vacuum surfaces where heads have rested
(e.g. sofas, seats of cars and helmets) as lice can live up to two days away from human contact.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Impetigo
What is it?
Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin caused by Streptococcus and/or Staphylococcus bacteria. The most
commonly affected areas on the body include: the mouth, nose and parts of the skin not covered by clothes.
What are the symptoms?
Impetigo is a skin rash that looks like a cluster of red bumpy or blistered skin. The blisters may ooze or form
thick, yellow crusts.
Who is at risk?
The infection is most common in children, although anyone can become infected with impetigo.
When is it contagious?
It is contagious as long as the blisters are draining or until 24 hours after treatment with antibiotics. Children
should stay home from school or daycare until 24 hours after starting treatment.
How does it spread?
The infection is spread by direct contact with fluid from the blisters. The bacteria can spread when a person
touches or scratches the rash and then touches another person. It can also be spread by touching clothing,
bedding or towels that have been in contact with the fluid from the blisters. If a person naturally carries the
bacteria in their nose, it can also spread by coughing or sneezing.
How is it treated?
Impetigo can be treated with antibiotics. See your health care provider.
How can infection be prevented?
• Wash your hands well and often, especially after touching/scratching the rash and/or your nose.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and encourage others to do the same.
• Articles soiled with pus should be washed in hot soapy water.
• Use separate towels and washcloths to prevent the spread to others.
What do I do if I get sick with Impetigo?
• See your health care provider for specific treatment.
• Stay home until you have been on treatment for 24 hours.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Norovirus
What is it?
Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis in people. It is often called stomach flu, although
it is not related to the flu (or influenza) which is a respiratory illness caused the influenza virus.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms are sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Other symptoms may
include a low-grade fever, chills, headache, and feeling unwell. Symptoms usually last 24 to 48 hours but may
last longer in some people.
Who is at risk?
Noroviruses occur throughout the year but are more common in winter and affect all age groups.
When do symptoms start?
The symptoms usually start 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus but may occur as early as 12 hours after
exposure.
When is it contagious?
People infected with Norovirus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill to at least 48 hours after
they no longer have symptoms.
How is it spread?
The virus is found in the stool or vomit of infected people. It is spread by direct contact with a person who is ill
or through indirect contact by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, like door handles or by eating
food or drinking water that has been contaminated. Good evidence exists that droplets from aerosolization of
vomitus can also spread the virus. The virus can survive on hard surfaces in the environment for up to 12 hours.
It can survive on contaminated carpet for up to 12 days.
How is it treated?
There is no specific treatment for this viral infection.
How can the spread of Norovirus be reduced?
• Frequent and thorough handwashing is the best prevention, especially after using the bathroom or
handling diapers and before eating or preparing food.
• Eat food that is well cooked and still hot when served.
• Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables, in a safe water source, before eating.
• Thoroughly clean contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness with warm, soapy water
and then disinfect the area using a household disinfectant. Immediately remove and wash clothing or linen
that may be contaminated with stool or vomit.
• Flush or discard any vomit and/or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.
• Avoid shaking out soiled linen and wear household gloves when handling soiled materials.
What should I do if I get sick with Norovirus?
• Stay home and away from others until symptoms have gone.
• Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.
• Symptomatic individuals must be excluded from food handling, direct patient care in health care facilities and
daycare centres until symptom free for 48 hours.
• Symptomatic daycare attendees must be excluded from daycare centre until symptom free for 48 hours.
• See your health care provider if your symptoms are severe.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Pinworm
What is it?
A pinworm infection (enterobiasis) is a contagious intestinal parasitic disease caused by small, thin white
worms.
What are the symptoms?
The most common symptoms include itching around the anus, disturbed sleep and irritability. There may be no
symptoms at all.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get a pinworm infection, however, it is more common among children.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms can start two to six weeks after contact with the parasite.
When is it contagious?
Pinworm infections are contagious as long as the parasites deposit eggs on the anal area. Eggs can remain
infective in an indoor environment for two to three weeks.
How does it spread?
Pinworm infection is spread from person to person by swallowing the eggs of the pinworm from contaminated
hands or from a contaminated object. The eggs travel to the intestines where they hatch and mature. The
mature worms travel to the anus where they deposit a new batch of eggs (usually at night), which causes
itchiness. Scratching of the infected area can transfer eggs to hands, allowing for spread to other people. It can
also be transmitted through touching contaminated clothing, bedding, toys or other articles.
How is it treated?
Ask your health care provider or pharmacist about recommended treatment. All members of the family may
have to be treated if several members are infected or if repeated infections occur.
How can pinworm infection be prevented?
• Use good personal hygiene, especially washing hands after using the toilet and before eating or preparing
food.
• Keep nails short and discourage children from scratching the anal area and from biting nails.
• Identify and treat cases to remove sources of infection.
• Do not shake bedding/clothing used by infected individuals.
What do I do if I get pinworms?
• Daily morning shower or stand up bath is better than tub baths.
• Change underclothing after bathing and change nightclothes and bed sheets often.
• Clean and vacuum the house often for several days after starting treatment.
• Clean washroom areas thoroughly and often, especially toilets and toilets seats.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Rhinovirus
What is it?
Rhinoviruses are the usual cause of the ”common cold.”
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, watery eyes and tiredness.
Who is at risk?
Everyone.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms usually start two to three days but occasionally up to seven days after coming in contact with the
virus .
When is it contagious?
It varies, but ranges from seven to 10 days after symptoms start.
How does it spread?
Rhinovirus is spread from person-to-person through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of
infected people when they cough or sneeze. It can also be spread through contact with objects soiled with
discharge from the nose/throat of infected people (e.g. tissues, hands, toys, countertops, etc.).
How is it treated?
There is no treatment for this infection. Your health care provider may suggest treating symptoms with overthe-counter medications.
How can the spread of Rhinovirus be reduced?
• Frequent and thorough hand hygiene.
• Covering your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze, using your sleeve or disposable tissue.
What should I do if I get sick with Rhinovirus?
• Stay at home and away from others until your symptoms are gone.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Contact your health care provider if symptoms worsen or are severe.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Ringworm
What is it?
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. It can affect skin on your body, scalp, groin area, feet and nails.
What are the symptoms?
Ringworm appears as a flat, ring-shaped rash with a raised edge around it. It may be dry and scaly or moist
and crusted. The rash is often itchy and flaky. If the rash is on the scalp, the hair may break off at the scalp
leaving a temporary bald spot. If feet are infected, they are usually very itchy and the skin between the toes
may crack. If nails are infected, they may become discoloured, thick and even crumble.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can develop a ringworm infection.
When do symptoms start?
The onset of symptoms differs based on the area of the body that is affected. Symptoms on the body usually
start about four to 10 days after having contact with the rash of an infected person. Symptoms appear in
10 to 14 days, if the scalp is affected. Onset of symptoms affecting the feet, groin, and nails is probably
weeks but exact limits are unknown.
When is it contagious?
Ringworm can be spread to others for as long as the rash is present.
How does it spread?
Ringworm commonly spreads from person to person by direct contact. When someone with ringworm
touches or scratches the rash, the fungus remains on the fingers and spreads when that person touches
someone else. Ringworm can also be spread by contact with contaminated items such as combs,
hairbrushes, hats and shower or pool surfaces.
How is it treated?
Ringworm can be treated with medication prescribed by a health care provider. The medication can be either
pills, or ointments and creams that are applied to the affected area. Symptoms should improve after two
weeks of treatment.
How can ringworm infection be prevented?
• Wash your hands well if you have touched the rash of an infected person.
• Do not share clothing, hats, combs, hairbrushes, with others.
• Avoid touching pets with bald spots.
• Keep skin and feet clean and dry.
• Wear sandals or shoes at gyms and pools to avoid possible exposure to fungus.
What do I do if I get sick with ringworm?
• See your health care provider if you think you or your child has ringworm.
• Check all family members and pets.
• Wash your hands well after touching the rash.
• Do not share hats, hairbrushes, combs, clothing or anything that has contacted the rash.
• Do not swim in public swimming pools and keep the rash covered with your clothing.
• Launder towels and clothing with hot water and/or a fungicidal agent.
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1-866-888-4577
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Rotavirus
What is it?
Rotavirus is a viral infection that causes gastroenteritis in people.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms are vomiting, fever, and watery diarrhea. They last on average three to eight days. The symptoms
can become severe and result in dehydration.
Who is at risk?
Rotavirus is common in children, although adults can also become infected. The virus can cause illness in day
care environments, in the elderly living in long-term care homes and in community residences for older adults.
When do symptoms start?
The symptoms usually start 24 to 72 hours after exposure to the virus.
When is it contagious?
Rotavirus may be present in the stool before the onset of symptoms until approximately eight days after.
However, in rare cases, in people who are immunocompromised, it has been reported to be present in the stool
for as long as 30 days after the onset of symptoms.
How is it spread?
The virus is found in the stool or vomit of infected people. It is spread by direct contact with a person who is ill
or through indirect contact by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, like door handles or by eating
food or drinking water contaminated with the virus. The virus may also be spread through respiratory secretions
when a person coughs, sneezes or vomits.
How is it treated?
There is no specific treatment for this infection.
How can the spread of Rotavirus be reduced?
• Frequent and thorough hand hygiene is the best prevention, especially after using the bathroom or
handling diapers and before eating or preparing food.
• Thoroughly clean contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness with warm, soapy water
and then disinfect the area using a household disinfectant. Immediately remove and wash clothing or linen
that may be contaminated with stool or vomit.
• Flush or discard any vomit and/or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.
• Avoid shaking out soiled linen and wear gloves when handling soiled materials.
• Symptomatic individuals must be excluded from food handling, direct patient care or work in a daycare until
symptom free for 24 hours.
• Symptomatic daycare attendees must be excluded from daycare centres until symptom free for 24 hours.
• Rotavirus vaccine is available for infants under six months of age. Ask your health care provider.
What should I do if I get sick with Rotavirus?
• Stay home and away from others until symptoms are gone.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• See your health care provider if your symptoms are severe.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Scabies
What is it?
Scabies is a skin condition caused by mites that burrow under the surface of the skin and lay eggs.
What are the symptoms?
Scabies mites cause a rash that is very itchy, especially at night. The rash may look like white curvy thread-like
lines, tiny red bumps, or scratch marks. Scabies rash usually appears on the wrists, elbows and between
fingers and toes, but may appear anywhere on the body. Intense itching may occur and sores may develop
due to scratching.
Who is at risk?
Scabies is found worldwide. People living in crowded conditions (e.g.: institutions) are at increased risk.
Scabies outbreaks are most common in correctional facilities, nursing homes and child-care facilities. Scabies is
easily passed between household members and sexual partners. People with weakened immune systems are at
risk for severe infestation (“crusted” or “Norwegian” scabies).
When is it contagious?
Scabies is contagious as long as the person is infested and untreated.
How does it spread?
Scabies is spread through direct contact with an infected person (e.g.: sleeping in the same bed, holding
hands). Even though scabies can only live away from the body for a few days, it can also be spread through
the sharing of clothing, bed linens and towels of an infected person.
How is it treated?
Treatment usually consists of an over-the-counter lotion or cream; ask your Health Care Provider or pharmacist
for recommendations. It is important to follow the instructions carefully, and to not use more than the
recommended treatment.
All household members and anyone who has had close skin-to-skin contact with the infected person should be
treated (even if they have no symptoms).
People should not return to work or school until the day after the first treatment was started.
How can infestation be prevented?
Avoid prolonged direct, skin-to-skin contact with infected people and their personal items (clothing, bedding,
towels).
Bedding, clothing and towels used by the infected person should be washed in hot water and dried using the
hot setting of the dryer or dry-cleaned to prevent spread.
All non-washable items (e.g. stuffed toys) should be removed from the infected person and stored in a plastic
bag for one week to avoid re-infestation.
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1-866-888-4577
www.hkpr.on.ca
HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Scarlet Fever
What is it?
Scarlet fever is an infection caused by group A streptococcus bacteria that causes strep throat. Sometimes the
bacteria produce a toxin that causes a body rash. Not all group A streptococcus bacteria make the toxin and
only some people are sensitive to it.
What are the symptoms?
Scarlet fever often begins with a sore throat and swollen, tender glands in the neck and a fever. A red rash can
develop (on neck, chest, armpit, elbow, groin and inner thigh area) that feels rough like sandpaper. The rash
will start to fade on the sixth day after sore throat symptoms began. The person may develop flushed cheeks
and become pale around the mouth. The tongue is bright read and can have the appearance of a strawberry.
High fever, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting may also occur. The skin on the tips of the
fingers and toes may peel off after the person begins to feel better (sometimes the skin will peel from the body
and limbs too, where the rash occurred). The peeling may last up to 10 days. Some side effects occurring late
in the illness may include kidney problems and rheumatic fever (affecting the heart and joints).
Who is at risk?
Everyone is at risk, but scarlet fever is commonly seen in children under 18 years of age, particularly children
aged four to eight years.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms generally start one to three days after exposure to the bacteria.
When is it contagious?
Scarlet fever is contagious until 24 hours after antibiotic treatment is started.
How does it spread?
Streptococcus bacteria may colonize the throats of individuals (carriers) without symptoms and may be passed
from person to person. It can also be spread through contact with secretions of an infected person. It is also
spread through the droplets in the air. This usually occurs through talking, coughing and sneezing.
How is it treated?
Antibiotics are prescribed to treat scarlet fever.
How can infection be prevented?
• Thorough hand hygiene is the best prevention.
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue or your sleeve. Encourage others to do the
same.
• Do not share eating/drinking utensils or kiss people that have a sore throat.
• Stay home if you are ill.
What do I do if I get sick with scarlet fever?
See your health care provider for a complete assessment.
Stay home from work or school until 24 hours after you start your antibiotic treatment.
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HALIBURTON, KAWARTHA, PINE RIDGE DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Strep Throat
What is it?
Strep throat is an infection caused by the Group A Streptococci bacteria.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of strep throat include a sudden onset of fever, tonsillitis or pharyngitis (sore throat), with
tender, enlarged lymph nodes. On inspection, the throat may appear red and swollen. Other symptoms can
include: headache, chills, rash, malaise (general unwell feeling, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, nausea
and stomach pain.
Who is at risk?
Everyone is at risk of developing strep throat. The strep bacteria may colonize the throats of individuals
(carriers) without symptoms and my be passed from person to person. Children between the ages of six to 12
are most often affected.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms usually start one to three days after coming into contact with the bacteria.
When is it contagious?
Strep throat can be contagious for as long as 10 to 21 days, if left untreated. If adequately treated, it usually is
not contagious after 24 hours of treatment.
How does it spread?
Strep throat is spread from person to person through saliva, sneezing/coughing and also through the mucous
of an infected person. It can also be spread by indirect contact with objects that have been touched by
infected people.
How is it treated?
Strep throat is treated with antibiotics. If you suspect you or your child may have strep throat, please contact
your health care provider.
How can infection be prevented?
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve and encourage others to do the
same.
• Wash your hands after handling nose and throat discharges (i.e. after disposal of facial tissues containing
nose discharges).
• Avoid sharing anything that touches your mouth (i.e. eating utensils, straws, lipstick).
• Reduce person-to-person contact with those who have symptoms.
What do I do if I get sick with strep throat?
• If you or your child has a fever, they should be kept out of work/daycare/school until the fever resolves.
• If you or your child begins to develop symptoms, see your health care provider.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid acidic beverages such as orange juice, lemonade, etc. as
these can irritate a sore throat.
• Finish antibiotics as prescribed, even if feeling better.
• Twenty-four hours after antibiotics have been started, you are no longer considered contagious and can
return to work, school or daycare.
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