A communicable disease is any contagious illness caused by bacteria or viruses. It can be spread from person to person or from animal to person. These diseases can be spread via contact with contaminated surfaces, through the air, bodily fluids like blood, or through insect bites.
Infectious diseases are caused by germs like bacteria, viruses, or fungi entering the body and rapidly multiplying. This can cause an infection. Many infectious diseases are also contagious (communicable) and able to spread through air, liquid, food, and other germ-riddled places.
Reportable Communicable Diseases
Learn which diseases are to be reported immediately and which diseases must be reported within 3 days.
Disease Prevention Services
Disease Prevention Services provides information and resources on disease intervention, STI control, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and healthcare-associated infections.
Disease & Condition Fact Sheets
Learn the details of a variety of diseases and conditions and answer any questions you have.
Infectious Disease Dashboard
View all or select infectious diseases of interest on the infectious disease dashboard.
Vector-Borne Diseases (Ticks/Mosquitoes)
Learn about vector-borne diseases in South Dakota, including West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and other mosquito and tick-borne illnesses.
Foodborne & Enteric Diseases
Learn about foodborne and enteric diseases, which some may refer to as a "stomach bug."
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
Learn about lead exposure prevention education and support for the families of children exposed to lead.
Mercury Exposure
Explore the risks, effects, sources, symptoms, and potential health hazards associated with mercury exposure.
Travel
If you have future travel plans, keep an eye on the news for updates on the evolving situation.
Data Confidentiality & Security
Learn about data confidentiality in HIV/AIDS reporting in South Dakota and understand privacy measures and regulations.