The communicable disease program works to prevent and control the spread of communicable diseases and vector-borne illness among people who work, eat, play and live in Wake County. We provide accurate information to help you stay healthy and safe.
Information about common communicable diseases and pests.
Bed Bugs
Adult bed bugs are about the size and color of an apple seed. They do not seem to spread disease, but they can cause itchy welts. Learn how to identify, prevent, and get rid of bed bugs.
Flu
Flu usually occurs in the winter in the US. The time when flu begins to appear in the community varies from year to year. Learn how to prevent and treat the flu.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus. It may not cause symptoms for years or even decades, while slowly damaging the liver. Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver cancer and the number one cause of liver transplants. It can be treated and cured. Make sure you get tested.
Mosquito Prevention
Biting mosquitoes can be a bother and spread disease. Mosquitoes in North Carolina can spread West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and La Crosse Encephalitis. Most people have mild or no symptoms of these diseases, but a few can get really sick. Learn how to prevent mosquitos around your home and prevent bites.
Rabies
Rabies is a preventable disease that is caused by a virus. The virus is spread to animals and people through the saliva of an infected animal. This happens most often when people or animals are exposed through bites or scratches from an infected animal. Learn how to protect yourself, your family and your home.
Ticks
North Carolina often reports the highest number of people with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever(RMSF) in the United States. Other tick-borne illnesses found in North Carolina include lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and STARI (Southern Tick Associated Rash Illness). These diseases can become severe and cause long-term health problems if not treated early. Ticks are found all year in North Carolina, but people are more likely to be bitten in late spring, summer and fall.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious disease that can harm the lungs or other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys or spine. TB is spread through the air when someone who is sick with TB disease of the lungs coughs, sneezes, sings or speaks. Others can become infected by breathing the germs into their lungs. People who are infected with TB usually have had close contact with a person who is sick with TB disease.