Contagious disease is an illness that can spread from one person to another. It can be caused by germs like viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Some examples are the flu, COVID-19, measles, and strep throat. These diseases can spread through coughing, sneezing, touching, or even through food and water.

Public health agencies work to keep people safe from diseases. They keep track of when and where people get sick in the community. If they notice that more people are getting the same illness, they take steps to stop it from spreading. This might include testing people, giving out medicine or vaccines, and sharing important health tips with everyone.

Public health also works to help prevent diseases before they start. This means showing people how to stay healthy, like washing hands often and staying home when sick. Public health also works with schools, hospitals, and businesses to make sure they know how to stop germs from spreading.

Sometimes, many people in a community get sick around the same time. When this happens, public health teams act quickly. They try to find out where the illness started and how it is spreading. Then they help care for people who are sick and give advice to help keep others healthy.

Public health doesn't do this work alone. They partner with doctors, nurses, schools, and community groups. Everyone has a role in keeping our towns and cities safe from diseases. When we all work together, we can stop the spread and keep our communities healthy and strong.

Brown County Public Health

One of the best ways to prevent illness is by keeping your hands clean. Kindergarten students at Washington Learning Center in New Ulm were taught the importance of staying clean to stay healthy.

A fun activity using a germ light allowed this class to see the germs that are left behind even after washing their hands. It highlights the importance of daily self-care habits such as taking regular showers or baths, brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, and wearing clean clothes. Sometimes it can be hard to do these things yourself and knowing how to ask for help can make self-care much easier.

Germ lessons don't stop with children; they are important at every stage of life. This program is available for all ages to help everyone learn the importance of good hygiene. These small steps make a big impact on staying healthy and can prevent the start and spread of illness.