Reportable Diseases

Communicable Disease

Reportable & Investigations

Diseases that the health department investigates are called “reportable.” Healthcare professionals, physicians, laboratories, and hospitals are required by law (N.J.A.C. 8:57) to submit reportable disease information to their local health department. There are currently over 60 communicable diseases that are reportable in New Jersey. After being reported, the Salem County Department Health Communicable Disease nurse conducts a thorough confidential investigation to determine the source of the infection, prevent spread, and provide education to the case. It is necessary for the health department to track communicable diseases to help identify and prevent disease outbreaks, provide the appropriate public health follow-up for patients, and provide a better understanding of Salem County health patterns.

What Should Be Reported?

There are two categories of disease reporting:

1. Immediately by telephone upon identification by a laboratory or by diagnosis of a health care provider.

2. Within 24 hours of identification by a laboratory or by diagnosis of a health care provider.

Additional Responsibilities

In addition to tracking and monitoring communicable diseases, the Communicable Disease staff:

• Collaborate with the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) to monitor disease trends.
• Provide education and resources for treatment.

How Can I Report?

Reporting is Easy!

Salem County Department of Health & Human Services
Email:
Office #: 856-935-7510 ext.8487
After-hours #: 856-769-1955