Disease Surveillance

The North Central District Health Department (NCDHD) disease surveillance program monitors and investigates diseases to help prevent and control outbreaks in our communities. In coordination with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, NCDHD conducts epidemiological investigations and follow up which involve vector borne disease (diseases spread by mosquitos and ticks), food and water borne illnesses hepatitis and other infectious diseases and health concerns.

NCDHD works in partnership with local hospitals, clinics, healthcare providers, long term care facilities, and schools to receive prompt notification of infectious diseases and other diseases of public health importance. NCDHD is notified of all lab-confirmed communicable diseases, conducts prompt investigations coordinates the collection of data, and provides public health guidance.

NCDHD also assists with education and training on communicable disease prevention.

Disease Reporting

Communicable disease and other conditions may pose a threat to the publics health. Use the following guidelines for what should be reported:

For more information on diseases:
List of Diseases & Conditions - DHHS

To learn about Nebraska's Health Alert Network:

Health Alert Network (HAN) - DHHS

Ebola

Facts about Ebola in the U.S.:

You can't get Ebola through air
You can't get Ebola through water
You can't get Ebola through food

More information can be found through the CDC here.

Food Safety and Illness

What is Food Poisoning?

Foodborne illness (sometimes called food poisoning, disease or infection) is common, costly and preventable. You can contract it after swallowing food that has been contaminated with a variety of germs or toxic substances.

Current recalls, market withdrawals and safety alerts can be found here:

FDA-food safety

Here are some Barbecue Basics: Tips to prevent foodborne illness during the summer months.

Barbecue Basics

If you suspect you have foodborne illness from a restaurant or exposure; please complete this survey

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious, serious disease caused by a virus. In 1980, before widespread vaccination, measles cause an estimated 2.6 million deaths each year. Measles is caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family and it is normally passed through direct contact and through the air.

Accelerated immunization activities have had a major impact on reducing measles deaths. During 2000-2015, measles vaccination prevented an estimated 20.3 million deaths. Global measles deaths have decreased by 79% from an estimated 651 600 in 2000* to 134 200 in 2015.

2024 Outbreak Information:

CDC-Measles

Nebraska ICAP-Measles Guidance

DHHS Release: Measles Cases on the Rise

Influenza

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses.

It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some people, such as elderly, young children, and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk for serious flu complications.

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the North Central District Health Department (NCDHD) recommend that everyone over 6 months of age get vaccinated to protect themselves and other from the flu.

Nebraska DHHS Seasonal Influenza Information