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Infectious diseases

Man blowing nose into tissue while sitting in bed with a blanket

If you're sick or exposed

Call ahead before visiting your doctor or emergency department to prevent spreading illness to others. Stay home until fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms are improving.

How to protect yourself

Animal-transmitted diseases

Infections spread through contact with animals, including bites, scratches or exposure to saliva. Immediate action is critical if you've been bitten or scratched.

Includes:

  • Rabies (bats, raccoons, skunks, dogs, cats)
  • What to do if bitten
  • Pet vaccination requirements

Gastrointestinal illnesses

Stomach and intestinal infections causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Highly contagious and spreads easily through contaminated surfaces and food.

Includes:

  • Norovirus (Norwalk Virus)
  • Prevention and hand hygiene
  • Proper cleanup procedures

Mosquito and tick-borne diseases

Infections spread by mosquitoes and ticks. Most active during warmer months. Protection includes using insect repellent and checking for ticks after outdoor activities.

Includes:

  • West Nile Virus (mosquitoes)
  • Lyme Disease (ticks)
  • Tick identification services

Respiratory illnesses

Infections that affect the lungs and breathing, spread through coughs, sneezes and close contact. These illnesses can affect anyone and spread easily in community settings.

Includes:

  • Common respiratory illnesses — COVID-19, influenza (flu), RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and ways to protect yourself
  • Tuberculosis

Sexually transmitted infections

Infections spread through sexual contact. Testing, treatment, prevention and confidential support services are available.

Includes:

  • STI testing and treatment
  • Prevention information
  • Sexual health services

Vaccine-preventable diseases

Serious infections that can be prevented or reduced in severity through vaccination. Staying up-to-date with vaccines protects you and vulnerable people in our community.

Includes:

  • Measles
  • Mpox (Monkeypox)
  • Other vaccine-preventable diseases

Related information

Find a doctor

Family physicians accepting new patients and walk-in clinic locations throughout Niagara.

Health care professionals

Disease reporting requirements, clinical guidelines and resources for health care providers.

A-Z infectious diseases

Information on more infectious diseases.

Travel health notices

Potential health risks to Canadian travellers and recommend ways to help reduce them.