Stay informed of outbreaks that could affect your community. Keep these telephone numbers and web addresses handy for quick access to up-to-date information:
- Dakota County Public Health Department: 651-554-6100
- Minnesota Department of Health: 651-201-5000, www.health.state.mn.us
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)
Ebola
Ebola disease is not circulating in Minnesota and the risk of exposure remains extremely low. Health care providers and public health departments in Minnesota are prepared to respond and control the spread of the disease.
Facts about Ebola
- Ebola is not spread through the air, water or food.
- A person infected with Ebola virus is not contagious until symptoms appear.
- Ebola virus is spread by direct contact through broken skin or mucous membranes with blood or other body fluids (such as vomit, diarrhea, urine, breast milk, sweat or semen) of an infected person who currently has symptoms or who has recently died from Ebola.
- The virus can also be spread through syringes or other objects contaminated by body fluids of an infected person, such as clothing or bedding.
More information about Ebola
Zika
Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. The type of mosquito that most often carries this virus is found in Central and South America, including Mexico, Puerto Rico and other islands in the Caribbean, as well as some areas of the southern U.S. Zika virus is not currently circulating in the U.S. but has been detected in returning travelers.
Symptoms normally start 3–7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include fever, joint soreness, rash or red eyes. Many people may not experience any symptoms.
Health officials are concerned about reports of microcephaly (abnormally small heads) in infants related to Zika virus infection during pregnancy. Reports of Guillain-Barre syndrome are also being investigated.
Information about Zika virus
For more information